Ursavus is a genus of extinct bears that lived between 19 million to 5 million years ago. The term Ursavus is derived from the Latin word "Ursa" meaning "bear", and "avus," meaning "ancestor". The genus is known for having several synonyms, including Plithocyon, Hemicyon, and Parictis. Plithocyon was used to describe the species of Ursavus that had a more robust skull than other members of the genus. Hemicyon, on the other hand, was used for the species that had more elongated canines and premolars. Meanwhile, Parictis was used for the smaller and more primitive members of the Ursavus genus. The use of these synonyms shows the diversity and complexity of the Ursavus genus.