behaviour
/bɪˈheɪvjə
/(US behavior)
noun [mass noun]
1The way in which one acts or conducts oneself, especially towards others: he will vouch for her good behaviour his insulting behaviour towards me [as modifier]: behaviour patterns [count noun]: management is a set of techniques and behaviours for getting things done...
- Nella was still angry at their patronising and arrogant behaviour towards her in those times.
- He complained that the doctor's behaviour towards him had been inappropriate.
- It was totally unacceptable behaviour towards people who had given you long and loyal service.
Synonyms
conduct, way of behaving, way of acting, deportment, bearing, etiquette;
actions, exploits, doings, efforts;
manners, ways, habits, practices
informal capers
rare comportment
1.1The way in which an animal or person behaves in response to a particular situation or stimulus: the feeding behaviour of predators...
- Animals alter their behavior to avoid a variety of different types of predators.
- Data on ancient color could tell us about the environment and behavior of animals.
- Few other studies have correlated the influence of the full moon with behaviour of animals or insects.
1.2The way in which a machine or natural phenomenon works or functions: the erratic behaviour of the old car...
- Perhaps this is because they mimic evolved solutions, so their behaviour seems more natural.
- This is so the otters' food can be hidden to encourage their natural foraging behaviour.
- In fact operating transnationally should be a natural and normal behaviour.
Synonyms
functioning, action, performance, operation, working, running, reaction, response;
actions, reactions, responses
Phrases
be on one's best behaviour
Origin
Late Middle English: from behave, on the pattern of demeanour, and influenced by obsolete haviour from have.