behave

verb be·have \bi-ˈhāv, bē-\

: to act in an acceptable way : to act properly

: to act in a particular way

of a thing : to function, react, or move in a particular way

be·havedbe·hav·ing

Full Definition of BEHAVE

transitive verb

: to manage the actions of (oneself) in a particular way

: to conduct (oneself) in a proper manner

intransitive verb

: to act, function, or react in a particular way

: to conduct oneself properly

— be·hav·er noun

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Origin of BEHAVE

Middle English behaven, from be- + haven to have, hold

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to BEHAVE

Synonyms: acquit, bear, carry, comport, conduct, demean, deport, quit

Synonym Discussion of BEHAVE

behave, conduct, deport, comport, acquit mean to act or to cause oneself to do something in a certain way. behave may apply to the meeting of a standard of what is proper or decorous <the children behaved in church>. conduct implies action or behavior that shows the extent of one's power to control or direct oneself <conducted herself with unfailing good humor>. deport implies behaving so as to show how far one conforms to conventional rules of discipline or propriety <the hero deported himself in accord with the code of chivalry>. comport suggests conduct measured by what is expected or required of one in a certain class or position <comported themselves as gentlemen>. acquit applies to action under stress that deserves praise or meets expectations <acquitted herself well in her first assignment>.