Meaning of bear down in English

1. Pronunciation

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   UK accent

   How to pronounce bear down in British English, in context ▾
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1. Verb

   bear down

   Definitions

   1. exert a force with a heavy weight

   Examples

   • « The snow bore down on the roof »
2. 2. to make a rush at or sudden attack upon, as in battle

   Examples

   • « he saw Jess charging at him with a pitchfork »
3. 3. contract the abdominal muscles during childbirth to ease delivery
4. 4. exert full strength

   Examples

   • « The pitcher bore down »
5. 5. pay special attention to

   Examples

   • « The lectures bore down on the political background »
6. 6. exert a force or cause a strain upon

   Examples

   • « This tax bears down on the lower middle class »