I. ˈfi(ə)r noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English gefēra, derivative from the root of faran to travel — more at fare
1. archaic
a. : mate , companion
the lamb … raceth freely with his fere — Alfred Tennyson
b. : a wife or husband
own her fere and plighted lord — E.G.Bulwer-Lytton
2. now dialect Britain : a person of the same rank or competence : equal , peer , match
II. ˈfēr adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English fēre able to go, fit for military service; akin to Old High German gi fuori fit, suitable, Old Norse fœrr able, strong, fit for use, Old English faran to travel
now chiefly Scotland : in good health : sound , strong — often used in the phrase hale and fere