behavior

be-hav-ior · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    The way in which a person or animal acts or conducts themselves.

  2. 2.

    The way in which something functions or operates.

  3. 3.

    The manner of treating others.

Forms

plural: behaviors

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on one's best behavior — Acting as well as possible.
  • •
    behavior modification — Techniques to change behavior patterns.
  • •
    behavioral science — Study of human and animal behavior.

Related words

Antonyms: misbehavior
See also: behave, behaviour, conduct
Synonyms: actions, conduct, deportment, manner

Etymology

From Middle English behavour, from behaven ("to behave") + -our (noun suffix). American English spelling drops the "u" from the British "behaviour."