bearing

(bârˈĭng)

1. The manner in which one carries or conducts oneself: the poise and bearing of a champion.
2. a. A machine or structural part that supports another part.
   b. A device that supports, guides, and reduces the friction of motion between fixed and moving machine parts.
3. Something that supports weight.
4. The part of an arch or beam that rests on a support.
5. a. The act, power, or period of producing fruit or offspring.
   b. The quantity produced; yield.
6. Direction, especially angular direction measured from one position to another using geographical or celestial reference lines.
7. Awareness of one's position or situation relative to one's surroundings. Often used in the plural: lost my bearings after taking the wrong exit.
8. Relevant relationship or interconnection: Those issues have no bearing on our situation.
9. Heraldry A charge or device on a field.