good behavior
Americannoun
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satisfactory, proper, or polite conduct.
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conduct conformable to law; orderly conduct.
The convict's sentence was reduced for good behavior.
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proper fulfillment of the duties of an office, especially a public office.
The incumbent could not be discharged during good behavior.
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.
Sugary and fatty foods have become common at birthday parties, school events, sports activities, and even as rewards for good behavior.
From Science Daily • May 21, 2026
When traveling with her dog, Tu usually ignores bad behavior and instead regularly rewards good behavior with treats.
From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 25, 2026
It is what happens when you stop rewarding dysfunction and start recognizing good behavior.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 7, 2026
Individual explanations might suggest that the problem can be solved with education campaigns to address gaps in knowledge, or with sanctions for "bad" behavior and rewards for "good" behavior.
From Salon • Mar. 15, 2025
“It is earned through obedience and good behavior, but you’ve failed in your duties. What should be done with a boy who sneaks around and takes things the others don’t have?”
From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer
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.
