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 According to Knight, her demeanor didn’t line up with someone who was allegedly fearful or traumatized by her past association with Diddy. Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 28 May 2025 Miller quickly became a cast favorite thanks to her no-nonsense demeanor, quick wit and tantalizing aura. Tayler Adigun, Essence, 28 May 2025 His many returns had nothing to do with Jaxon’s sweet demeanor and gentle soul, the Humane Society for Hamilton County in Fishers said in a May 25 Facebook post. Tj MacIas, Kansas City Star, 27 May 2025 As the film progresses and Joel descends into a darker world of exploitation and cruelty, Cruise gradually chips away at his innocence to reveal a sober, world-weary demeanor. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for demeanor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demeanor
Noun
  • The women allege a longstanding pattern of such behavior.
    Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 7 June 2025
  • When Manford reported the incident, a supervisor allegedly laughed at her and did not report the behavior to human resources, the lawsuit claims.
    Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 22 Mar. 2025
  • For some government employees, levels of access to this information is determined by their job functions via a formal security clearance process and vetting actions.
    Rebecca Schneid, TIME, 22 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Fermin is an example to any budding professional for his work ethic and humble attitude.
    Tom Sanderson, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • Vance, who collaborated with Hughes on four films, decided Bueller’s costume should defy mainstream ‘80s fashion to reflect his rebellious attitude.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 6 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demeanor. Accessed 11 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on demeanor

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