Theirs: Bear [bâr], n. A mammal belonging to the genus Ursus or an animal belonging to a certain allied genera. [fig.] A rough, unmannered man

Ours:  Bear [bâr], n. [fig.] a furry, huggable, gay man. Found in all shapes, sizes, and varieties. Usually bears are summoned with the words "WOOF!" or "Grrrr!"

The Bear community is a masculinist subculture in the gay community. "Bears" are usually mature gay or bisexual men with hairy bodies and facial hair; some are heavy-set, but that is not a requirement. Bears often exhibit an outwardly masculine appearance.¹

There is much debate in the gay community as to the definition of a Bear: some say anyone who identifies himself as a Bear is one, while others argue that Bears must have certain physical characteristics--such as a hairy chest and face--and a certain mode of dress and behavior.¹

Bear Terminology:¹

• Admirer - a term that refers to someone who is not a Bear, Cub, Otter or Wolf, but is sexually or romantically attracted to them (this term is often used in various communities to describe an outsider who has sexual attraction to people within that community) Also often referred to as a chaser.
• Bear - a man with a beard or goatee typically with a hairy chest and body and a stocky or heavyset build; often older (or older looking) and displaying a masculine appearance.
• Cub - a younger (or younger looking) version of a Bear, typically but not always with a smaller frame. The term is sometimes used to imply the passive partner in a relationship. May not be as hairy but generally has facial hair.
• Daddybear - is an older guy sometimes looking for a daddy/son relationship or a Bearcub.
• Grizzly Bear - an older Bear, often with a large, wilder beard - think Grizzly Adams.
• Muscle Bear (or Musclebear) - a man who identifies as being a Bear, sporting a beard or goatee, hairy body, and is generally muscular. Linebacker build, a mix of muscle and fat.
• Otter - a man who is hairy, but is not large or stocky - typically thinner, or with lean muscle. Also typically identified by an energetically playful and flirtatious manner. Slimmer version of a Bear with little pockets of fat like love handles or a tiny gut, but not as lean as a Wolf.
• Polar Bear - is an older bear with white or grey body hair and beard.
• Wolf - similar to an Otter, but with a more aggressive attitude OR an older Otter, with grey hair. A leaner version of an Otter, can have a swimmers build but hairy.
• Woof! - A greeting sometimes used when a Bear spots another Bear in public and wants to express physical attraction. He might make a growling noise ("Grrr!") or say.

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