Definition of DEMEANOR (original) (raw)
: behavior toward others : outward manner
Did you know?
The history of demeanor begins with a threat: the word has its roots in Latin minārī, “to threaten.” A form of that word was used in contexts having to do with driving animals—that is, impelling them to move—and from this word developed more recent ancestors having to do with leading, guiding, and behaving. By the 14th century, English had a adopted a word out of this lineage: the verb demean meaning “to conduct or behave (oneself) usually in a proper manner.” (Another demean, defined as “to lower in character, status, or reputation,” entered the language later by means of another root.) The noun demeanor was formed in the following century through the addition of the suffix -or.
Synonyms
Choose the Right Synonym for demeanor
deportment suggests actions or behavior as formed by breeding or training.
your deportment was atrocious
demeanor suggests one's attitude toward others as expressed in outward behavior.
the haughty demeanor of the headwaiter
mien is a literary term referring both to bearing and demeanor.
a mien of supreme self-satisfaction
manner implies characteristic or customary way of moving and gesturing and addressing others.
the imperious manner of a man used to giving orders
carriage applies chiefly to habitual posture in standing or walking.
the kind of carriage learned at boarding school
Examples of demeanor in a Sentence
Staffs like the one at Veritas have come a long way from the days when sommeliers … intimidated diners with their overbearing demeanor and French accents. —
Food & Wine, September 2002 Sam himself, a quiet young man with a rather shy demeanor, was somewhat bemused by all this attention. —Lola Oberman, Bird Watcher's Digest, November/December 1994
her warm demeanor made us feel at home
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The 2-minute video of his turtle encounter has gotten thousands of views, reactions and comments, including from some who marveled at the man’s calm demeanor. —Mark Price, Miami Herald, 31 Jan. 2025 Elsbeth’s look and demeanor — the vibrant red hair, the bold color-and-texture combinations, the abundance of totes — have already been very effective in her pursuit of murderers. —Sophie Brookover, Vulture, 30 Jan. 2025 The Five-Star Weekend centers on Hollis Shaw (Garner), a famed food influencer known for her delicious recipes, impeccable taste, and warm demeanor, who suffers a devastating loss. —Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 27 Jan. 2025 As our conversation shifts toward the ways that highlighting her health struggles might help others, Reinhart’s demeanor shifts. —Julia Sullivan, SELF, 22 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for demeanor 
Word History
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of demeanor was in the 15th century
Dictionary Entries Near demeanor
Cite this Entry
“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/demeanor. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.
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Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025 - Updated example sentences
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