behave meaning and definition

BEHAVE verb

Definition of behave (verb)

1. behave in a certain manner; show a certain behavior; conduct or comport oneself
   • "You should act like an adult"; "Don't behave like a fool"; "What makes her do this way?"; "The dog acts ferocious, but he is really afraid of people"
   • synonyms: act, do
2. behave in a certain manner
   • "She carried herself well"; "he bore himself with dignity"; "They conducted themselves well during these difficult times"
   • synonyms: acquit, bear, carry, comport, conduct, deport
3. behave well or properly
   • "The children must learn to behave"
   • synonyms: comport
   • antonym: misbehave