bearing

Universal Words noun 1 [U] ~ on sth the way in which sth is related to sth or influences it: Recent events had no bearing on our decision. * Regular exercise has a direct bearing on fitness and health. * Her comments didn't have much bearing on the subject. 2 [sing.] the way in which you stand, walk or behave: Her whole bearing was alert. * a man of upright, military bearing 3 [C] (technical) a direction measured from a fixed point using a COMPASS: They took compass bearings on the tower. 4 [C] (technical) a part of a machine that supports a moving part, especially one that is turning seealsoBALLBEARING IDIOMS get / find / take your bearings to make yourself familiar with your surroundings in order to find out where you are or to feel comfortable in a place: He paused at the top of the hill, trying to get his bearings. lose your bearings to become lost or confused