demeanor

[ dih-mee-ner ]

noun

1. conduct; behavior; deportment.
2. facial appearance; mien.

Word History and Origins

Origin of demeanor¹

First recorded in 1425–75, demeanor is from the late Middle English word demenure. See demean ², -or ¹

Example Sentences

A romantic balance showing how Grant complements Alyssa’s demeanor, further pushing Hernández’s everyday boyfriend stock higher.

From Salon

“Precise and circumspect, with an avuncular demeanor and an authoritative voice .... Summerall indulged his partner’s many appetites and asides, even when that meant being elbowed aside at the mike and in the limelight.”

From Los Angeles Times

Harbaugh cites Herbert’s size and calm demeanor as a reason why he is officiated differently than other quarterbacks.

From Los Angeles Times

With her stringy, bleached-out hair and weary demeanor, she fits right in, while her antics such as a trick with a lighter or burping after chugging beer too fast are adorable and endearing but also mask something troubled and struggling underneath.

From Los Angeles Times

He’d been a Fox News devotee for years at this point, but there was a palpable shift in his demeanor watching this failed businessman ascend to power.

From Slate

Related Words

• attitude
• disposition
• mien
• poise
• presence