behaving

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.

"We're starting to block the ones who aren't behaving themselves, but we'll see how that goes."

From Barron's • Jun. 22, 2026

Suddenly, a simple dinner party starts behaving like a small capital project.

From Salon • Jun. 22, 2026

At the same time, tau may begin behaving abnormally.

From Science Daily • Jun. 19, 2026

How markets were behaving before the war mattered too.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 16, 2026

Although he tried to sound humble, he was soon behaving perfectly naturally, standing over Mr. Lapham with his notebook in his hand, reading off exactly how those spoons had been ordered.

From "Johnny Tremain" by Esther Hoskins Forbes