Main Entry: ¹de·mean

Pronunciation: \di-ˈmēn\

Function: transitive verb

Inflected Form(s): de·meaned; de·mean·ing

Etymology: Middle English demenen, from Anglo-French demener to conduct, from de- + mener to lead, from Latin minare to drive, from minari to threaten — more at mount

Date: 14th century

: to conduct or behave (oneself) usually in a proper manner