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
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1984
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The Hunger Games
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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.
Throughout the video, Parton weaved her cheery demeanor and wit in with the more serious tidbits about her health and grief.
From Los Angeles Times • May 4, 2026
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
In retrospect, its uncompromising litmus tests and chilly demeanor were real weaknesses, creating a pervading fear that any false step could expel one from good graces, and that a return trip was always, always treacherous.
From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026
His aunty’s face was opaque, her tone flat: the demeanor of a person who carried more bad news than she had delivered.
From "Half of a Yellow Sun" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
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.
