Behave
Definition, Meaning & Examples
Pronunciation /bɪˈheɪv/ · Part of speech verb
Quick meaning: Behave is a verb meaning (reflexive) To conduct (oneself) well, or in a given way; to conform.
Meaning
(reflexive) To conduct (oneself) well, or in a given way; to conform.
More Meanings
- (intransitive) To act, conduct oneself in a specific manner; used with an adverbial of manner.
- (intransitive) To act in a polite or proper way.
- (obsolete, transitive) To conduct, manage, regulate (something).
Example Sentences
You need to behave yourself, young lady.
He did behave his anger ere 'twas spent.
How did the students behave while I was gone?
He behaves like a child whenever she's around.
Word Forms
- behaves
- behaving
- behaved
- behavest
- behavedst
- behaveth
Synonyms for behave
Depending on context, synonyms include deport, tread, acquit, conduct, carry, act.
Antonyms for behave
Common opposites include misdemean, misbehave.
Related Words
Related dictionary entries include deport, conduct, comport, acquit, do, carry.
Related Dictionary Tools
Sources & Attribution
FreeDictionaryAPI.com / Wiktionary · Original source · CC BY-SA 4.0
Dictionary data is provided by FreeDictionaryAPI.com and sourced from Wiktionary under its stated license.