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 An earnest and thoughtful executive with a warm, open demeanor, Pinault was seated at Monday’s interview under a large black-and-white painting of an owl, the mascot for Kering — and a metaphor for his watchful eyes on shifting consumer sentiment and economic fluctuations. Miles Socha, Footwear News, 9 Sep. 2025 The contrast — fiery ball-striking paired with a cool demeanor — has become his signature. Zach Sweet, Kansas City Star, 9 Sep. 2025 Uma is a neighbor in Arconia with a direct and sarcastic demeanor, similar to Virgos. Lisa Stardust, People.com, 9 Sep. 2025 Just like his late mother, Princess Diana, Prince Harry was known for his warm way and down-to-earth demeanor at public engagements. Janine Henni, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for demeanor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for demeanor
Noun
  • The district says the money will help pay for a laundry list of programs, such as all-day kindergarten at all grade schools; the universal free breakfast program; pre-K centers; expanded career-technical education programs; and additional social workers, counselors and behavior specialists.
    Kevin Richert, Idaho Statesman, 10 Sep. 2025
  • The news follows Rudin’s announced return to theatrical producing, after a Hollywood Reporter investigation in 2021 had detailed multiple allegations of abusive behavior in claims from ex-staffers.
    Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Similar to the way Madueke drove at his man without hesitation, those first-time strikes were very welcome after last season, when many actions in and around the penalty area felt a bit too laborious.
    Art de Roché, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025
  • These small but deliberate actions can open doors to new learning and strengthen workplace success.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The Two Hearts Of A New MacBook Apple has been reluctant to feed these demands over the last decade, but there are signs that the attitude is thawing.
    Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
  • The attitude of last season has vanished, replaced by that performative pregame dustup as Texas A&M headed toward its locker room.
    Pete Sampson, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Demeanor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/demeanor. Accessed 16 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on demeanor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!