behave

verb

bi-HAYV/bɪˈheɪv/

Formsbehaves, behaving, behaved

4 meanings of behave

1
verbintransitive
To act in a polite, well-mannered way, especially around other people.
Like acting your best when you visit someone's home.
The children promised to behave at the wedding.
He always behaves well when his grandmother visits.
Oppositemisbehave
Note
2
verbintransitive
To act in a certain way, shown by a word that tells how someone or something acts.
Metals behave differently when they get very hot.
The new student behaved oddly during the test.
Similaract, conduct
Note
3
verbreflexivetransitive
To control yourself and act in a good or proper way.
Like following the rules without anyone reminding you.
Try to behave yourself while we're at the store.
The boys behaved themselves all through dinner.
Oppositemisbehave
Note

Less common meaning

4
verbobsoletetransitive
To manage or direct something, such as affairs or business.
The steward behaved the household accounts with great care.
He did behave his anger ere 'twas spent.
c. 1605, William Shakespeare, “The Life of Tymon of Athens”Here, behave means manage or control, as in keeping his anger in check.
Note

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Origin

From Old English behabban, meaning to hold back or restrain, made from be- plus have.