Bearer

A bearer is a person or thing that carries, holds, or conveys something, often in a formal or symbolic capacity. This 'something' can be physical, such as a package or a document, or abstract, such as a title, responsibility, or even a feeling. The term suggests agency and often implies a degree of ownership or association, even if temporary. Bearers can play various roles, from messengers to the person tasked with upholding a legacy. The act of bearing suggests responsibility or the potential for carrying significance or weight.

Bearer meaning with examples

• The messenger, the King's official bearer, arrived breathless, clutching the sealed royal decree. He was exhausted from his long journey, but knew he must deliver the message. The decree was considered extremely sensitive and important, its bearer was entrusted with safe delivery. The implications for a royal messenger were considered vital to the safety of the kingdom.
• As the nominated executor of the will, she became the legal bearer of the deceased's final wishes and the responsibility for distributing their assets. There were family disputes and challenges to the will. It was very stressful being the bearer of such sensitive information. She had to ensure that she carried out every instruction as written in the will.
• He considered the painting's vibrant colours a visual bearer of the artist's joy, conveying the essence of his happiness. He considered the painting to be a true representation of the joy he felt. Its colors reflected the happy emotion and served as a visual way of bringing joy. In this sense the artwork brought joy to all who viewed it.
• During the torch-lighting ceremony, the athlete, a proud bearer of the Olympic flame, ran across the arena, passing the torch to the next runner. The responsibility was a huge honor. The athlete knew that the flame represented the dreams of the many others, who would also follow, carrying it across the world.