demeanor
Americannoun
-
conduct; behavior; deportment.
-
facial appearance; mien.
Etymology
Origin of demeanor
First recorded in 1425–75, demeanor is from the late Middle English word demenure. See demean 2, -or 1
Explanation
Your demeanor is defined as being either your facial appearance or your behavior. When playing poker, don't let your demeanor give away how good your cards are. Demeanor in English today has evolved from Middle English and Old French to refer to the way one manages or presents oneself, and this definition applies to conduct as well as facial expressions. The way you present yourself often affects how others make judgments about you and therefore, you might want your demeanor to reflect the situation you're in. So, if you're at a birthday party, your demeanor should be happy and smiling!
Vocabulary lists containing demeanor
Grade 9, List 1
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
1984
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
The Hunger Games
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
Altman's unassuming, friendly demeanor contrasted sharply with Musk's abrasive style, but they shared an entrepreneurial spirit and a penchant for risk-taking.
From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026
After comedian Michelle Wolf satirized the president, Sanders’ demeanor changed.
From Salon • Apr. 24, 2026
His rapid rise from polling obscurity to the top Democratic position within days suggests that his more reserved demeanor may align closely with what voters actually want in their next governor.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026
Despite his stiff demeanor, Dulles was a flexible thinker whose approach shifted over time.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026
The soldier hurried to lift the gate, his demeanor that of a dog who had just been beaten, trying to please the master who had beaten it.
From "Not Nothing" by Gayle Forman
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
