bear down

Meanings

1. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see bear, down.
2. To steer away from the wind; to approach from windward.
3. To push (someone) to the ground; to defeat, overcome.
4. To maintain one's position against (someone) in a debate; to stand one's ground against.
5. To intensify one's efforts.
6. To approach in a determined manner.
7. To exert downward pressure on one's abdomen, as in giving birth, forcing out feces, and some similar bodily maneuvers.