Etimology
From Middle English behavoure, behaver, from behave, with -ior apparently in imitation of English havior, haviour, havour. Compare Scots havings (“behavior”), from have (“to behave”). Displaced Old English ġebǣru.
noun
behavior (usually uncountable, plural behaviors) (American spelling)
(uncountable) Human conduct relative to social norms.
(countable, uncountable) The way a living creature behaves or acts generally.
(uncountable, informal) A state of probation about one's conduct.
(countable, uncountable, biology, psychology) Observable response produced by an organism.
(uncountable) The way a device or system operates.
Examples
Teachers will probably be on their best behaviour for your visit – but don't be upset if they don't even notice you; they've got enough going on.
He was on his best behavior when her family visited.
Related words
related terms
behave