Definition of "bearer" in English

noun

1. One who, or that which, bears, sustains, or carries.

2. Someone who helps carry the coffin or a dead body during a funeral procession.

3. One who possesses a cheque, bond, or other notes promising payment.

   • I promise to pay the bearer on demand.

4. A person employed or engaged to carry equipment on a safari, expedition, etc.

5. A person employed to carry a palanquin or litter.

6. (India, dated) A domestic servant in charge of household goods and clothing; a valet.

7. (India) A waiter in a hotel or restaurant.

8. A tree or plant yielding fruit.

   • a good bearer

9. (dated) Someone who delivers a letter or message on behalf of another (especially as referred to in the letter or message).

   • 1784, Samuel Johnson, letter cited in James Boswell, The Life of Samuel Johnson, London: Charles Dilly, Volume 2, p. 487, Sir, The bearer is my godson, whom I take the liberty of recommending to your kindness […]

10. (printing) A strip of reglet or other furniture to bear off the impression from a blank page.

11. (printing) A type or type-high piece of metal interspersed in blank parts to support the plate when it is shaved.