Definition of demeanornext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun demeanor contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of demeanor are bearing, carriage, deportment, manner, and mien. While all these words mean "the outward manifestation of personality or attitude," demeanor suggests one's attitude toward others as expressed in outward behavior.

the haughty demeanor of the headwaiter

Where would bearing be a reasonable alternative to demeanor?

The words bearing and demeanor can be used in similar contexts, but bearing is the most general of these words but now usually implies characteristic posture.

a woman of regal bearing

When is it sensible to use carriage instead of demeanor?

Although the words carriage and demeanor have much in common, carriage applies chiefly to habitual posture in standing or walking.

the kind of carriage learned at boarding school

When would deportment be a good substitute for demeanor?

While in some cases nearly identical to demeanor, deportment suggests actions or behavior as formed by breeding or training.

your deportment was atrocious

When could manner be used to replace demeanor?

While the synonyms manner and demeanor are close in meaning, manner implies characteristic or customary way of moving and gesturing and addressing others.

the imperious manner of a man used to giving orders

When can mien be used instead of demeanor?

The meanings of mien and demeanor largely overlap; however, mien is a literary term referring both to bearing and demeanor.

a mien of supreme self-satisfaction

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of demeanor When a successful law-graduate cousin announces a plan to open a high-end restaurant in town, Azik’s loftiest dreams are reawakened — but one look at him, with his cauliflower ear and his antsy demeanor, is enough to tell you Azik is not someone for whom dreams readily come true. Guy Lodge, Variety, 13 May 2026 One of those women, Kris (Lauren Bittner), whose entire demeanor screams former head cheerleader, finally confronts Patricia at her sunset and cocktails event. Jen Chaney, Vulture, 13 May 2026 The appeals court’s decision to overturn the conviction centers on allegations that Hill improperly influenced jurors by commenting on Murdaugh’s demeanor and pressuring them to reach a verdict. Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2026 The bigger focus is on the team’s tone and demeanor, and whether Sullivan and Hafley have gathered the right types of players. Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 9 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for demeanor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demeanor
Noun
  • Lynch had faced complaints about inappropriate behavior before.
    Amber Gaudet, Charlotte Observer, 13 May 2026
  • Riders cannot directly control or override a Waymo vehicle’s driving behavior in real time.
    Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 13 May 2026
Noun
  • At a certain point, fans were so frustrated with Tariq’s actions that Michael was receiving death threats.
    Derek Lawrence, HollywoodReporter, 17 May 2026
  • That has created a public debate between Lisa Demuth and her daughter, Shelisa Demuth, who has criticized her mom's actions on social media.
    Reg Chapman, CBS News, 17 May 2026
Noun
  • In the right hands, delivered with an attitude that respects both the subjects and gallery visitors, this frantic exploration of cowboys and the West by art galleries can still have something to say.
    Ray Mark Rinaldi, Denver Post, 18 May 2026
  • Launched in 2001, Bratz made its name by offering dolls with attitude, distinct personalities, and a stronger sense of style than the category had seen at the time.
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demeanor. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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