behave

[bih-heyv] / bɪˈheɪv /

VERB

function

Synonyms

STRONGEST

act operate perform react

STRONG

run take work

Antonyms

STRONGEST

halt stop

WEAK

act up misbehave

VERB

act reasonably, properly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

manage

STRONG

control direct

WEAK

act correctly act one's age act with decorum be civil be good be nice be on best behavior be orderly comport oneself conduct oneself properly demean oneself deport oneself discipline oneself keep one's nose clean keep the peace live up to manage oneself mind one's manners mind one's p's and q's observe golden rule observe the law play fair shape up toe the mark watch one's step

Antonyms

WEAK

act up misbehave

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If the stakes weren’t so high, it would have been almost comical to see an adult behave so childishly in such a formal setting.

From Salon

Understanding how swarms behave collectively would be essential to anticipate risks.

From Salon

You know who you were in those moments, how you reacted, how you behaved, how you’ve adjusted.

From Los Angeles Times

In practice, it behaves like a market shock.

From The Wall Street Journal

These ultra thin materials are known to behave very differently from their thicker, three-dimensional versions.

From Science Daily