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 And so the familiar, awkward family dynamics are established, right down to Rosamund and Posy's haughty demeanor towards their step-sister/underling. Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026 Instead, her demeanor, as a result, in the final images, was criticized. Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 29 Jan. 2026 Although Simon would never guess from Trevor’s chipper demeanor, the experienced performer isn’t having the best time himself. Ben Travers, IndieWire, 27 Jan. 2026 When he was named student of the month for August-September at Lincoln-Way Central, English teacher Brianna Korczak wrote about Evans’ calm demeanor when nominating him. Jeff Vorva, Chicago Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for demeanor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demeanor
Noun
  • His work sits at the intersection of neuroscience, behavior change, and technology.
    Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • But the hardest part of the novel wasn’t scripting the scheming, backstabbing, or duplicitous behavior.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Though Andrea — initially convicted of capital murder — was ultimately found not guilty by reason of insanity and committed to a mental health facility, debate over what drove her actions continues to this day.
    KC Baker, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Reducing exposure can involve actions such as sealing cracks in basement floors or foundations, and installing ventilation systems designed to lower radon levels.
    Adam Harrington, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • In terms of public attitudes to these vehicles in Europe, the picture is murky.
    Laurie Winkless, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • For four decades, Megadeth have been high priests—not the highest, but close—in a church of metal where technical prowess, breakneck tempos, and sneering attitude are the holiest of virtues.
    Eli Enis, Pitchfork, 26 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demeanor. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.

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