bearer

A person who carries something, including a message, or supports a load.

• The flag bearer led the parade.
• Four bearers carried the heavy chest.
• She was the bearer of a message from the king.

How to use it: bearer of something (I hate being the bearer of bad news.)

Similar words: carrier

Common phrases: bearer of news, torch bearer, flag bearer

The person holding a payment document who can claim the money it promises.

• The bank will pay the bearer.
• These bonds belong to their bearer.
• The document promises payment to the bearer on demand.

Similar words: holder

Common phrases: pay the bearer, bearer bond, bearer cheque

An object that carries or supports the weight of people or things.

• The bearer supports the floor.
• Workers replaced two damaged timber bearers.
• Each steel bearer must carry the weight of the platform.

Similar words: support

Common phrases: timber bearer, steel bearer, load bearer

A tree or plant that produces fruit.

• This apple tree is a good bearer.
• The pear trees proved reliable bearers each summer.
• Choose a heavy bearer if you want plenty of fruit.

Common phrases: a good bearer, a heavy bearer, a reliable bearer