misbehave
verb (used without object)
to behave badly or improperly.
misbehaving
-
present participleof misbehave.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Why do boards keep giving misbehaving CEOs second chances?
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 19, 2026
A top lawmaker from Australia's far-right One Nation party has grabbed headlines after exploding at a misbehaving dog as he was grilled on live TV.
From Barron's ● Jul. 21, 2026
Fairlie had vowed last year to table secondary legislation that would allow Transport Scotland to suspend or withdraw free passes from misbehaving passengers.
From BBC ● Feb. 17, 2026
There has always been salacious gossip about the royal family, and misbehaving royals, but this time it felt much worse.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 31, 2025
“In addition, my valve has been misbehaving and has prevented me from bending over to reach the lower drawers.”
From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole
