1. (n.) An ancestor; a forefather; -- usually in the plural.

2. (v. i.) To refrain from proceeding; to pause; to delay.

3. (v. i.) To refuse; to decline; to give no heed.

4. (v. i.) To control one's self when provoked.

5. (v. t.) To keep away from; to avoid; to abstain from; to give up; as, to forbear the use of a word of doubtful propriety.

6. (v. t.) To treat with consideration or indulgence.

7. (v. t.) To cease from bearing.