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 The third-year quarterback is trying to put a disappointing second season behind him, and his demeanor in minicamp has led the rest of the team to feel more enthusiastic. Les Carpenter, Washington Post, 17 June 2026 As for Honey, that's an homage to the baby's sweet demeanor. Usa Today, USA Today, 16 June 2026 Brunson’s demeanor hardly ever changed. Sean Woods, Rolling Stone, 15 June 2026 Speaking with the outlet, Olsen recalled being surprised by Coca’s demeanor when cameras were not rolling. Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for demeanor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demeanor
Noun
  • Authorities said that in the days leading up to her disappearance, Moore exhibited behavior that was out of character, including a sudden absence and an abrupt change in social media presence, according to ABC News.
    Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026
  • One attack ad mocked Ossoff for playful college-era behavior.
    Jay Stahl, USA Today, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • Hoiby’s actions have further dented the popularity and once very positive public image of the royal family.
    Reuters, CNN Money, 15 June 2026
  • If discussions drift, gently redirect toward next actions and timelines, since specific promises turn goodwill into practical progress.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 June 2026
Noun
  • The result was reflected by the two head coaches’ vastly differing postgame attitudes.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 16 June 2026
  • In the corner of the team’s theater room, Wright hung a chart that was updated regularly by the team’s leader in attitude points, awarded for out-of-the-box accomplishments such as diving on the floor for loose balls or taking charges.
    Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 15 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demeanor. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.

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