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 Sitting near players like Hamels, even briefly, influenced Nola’s clubhouse demeanor. Charlotte Varnes, New York Times, 8 Oct. 2025 Serafini’s attorney also asked Butrick about telling KCRA about seeing Serafini’s demeanor in court during the trial. Rosalio Ahumada, Sacbee.com, 7 Oct. 2025 According to some sources close to the couple, Keith’s demeanor has definitely changed since the split. Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 7 Oct. 2025 Ross, a former Air Force drill sergeant known for his calm demeanor and encouraging words, enjoyed a resurgence in popularity during the lockdowns of the pandemic. Minyvonne Burke, NBC news, 7 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for demeanor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demeanor
Noun
  • While hilarious and adorable, owners with sassy dogs should ensure the behavior does not evolve into defiance or aggression.
    Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 14 Oct. 2025
  • Given the previous behavior of Netanyahu and the Hamas leadership, there is every chance that violence might erupt again.
    Bobby Ghosh, Time, 14 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 12 Oct. 2025
  • However, not everyone views Trump’s actions regarding Venezuela as negatively destabilizing.
    Christian Datoc, The Washington Examiner, 11 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Another source explained how Andrew and Anne differ in their attitudes as royals.
    Jason Pham, StyleCaster, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Levshunov’s attitude should help.
    Mark Lazerus, New York Times, 12 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demeanor. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on demeanor

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