manner

Definition of mannernext
1
as in etiquette
manners plural personal conduct or behavior as evaluated by an accepted standard of appropriateness for a social or professional setting the young man's impeccable manners are an unmistakable sign of a good upbringing

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in mode
a distinctive way of putting ideas into words the former doctor writes his novels very much in the manner of someone who is used to observing the smallest details

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun manner contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of manner are bearing, carriage, demeanor, deportment, and mien. While all these words mean "the outward manifestation of personality or attitude," 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 bearing be used instead of manner?

The meanings of bearing and manner largely overlap; however, bearing is the most general of these words but now usually implies characteristic posture.

a woman of regal bearing

When could carriage be used to replace manner?

The words carriage and manner are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, carriage applies chiefly to habitual posture in standing or walking.

the kind of carriage learned at boarding school

In what contexts can demeanor take the place of manner?

The synonyms demeanor and manner are sometimes interchangeable, but demeanor suggests one's attitude toward others as expressed in outward behavior.

the haughty demeanor of the headwaiter

When is deportment a more appropriate choice than manner?

The words deportment and manner can be used in similar contexts, but deportment suggests actions or behavior as formed by breeding or training.

your deportment was atrocious

Where would mien be a reasonable alternative to manner?

In some situations, the words mien and manner are roughly equivalent. 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 manner The manner in which that is carried out may depend on whether Democrats can gain a House majority in November. Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026 After demonstrations broke out in Iran on December 28, 2025, following the collapse of the Iranian currency, the country’s regime responded in a deadly manner. Emily Chan, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2026 The Tarrant County medical examiner’s office will release the victim’s identity and determine the official cause and manner of death. Maria Salette Ontiveros, Dallas Morning News, 14 Feb. 2026 While the manner of the loss will hurt Bronco fans, the ramifications of the loss also feel significant. Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 14 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for manner
Recent Examples of Synonyms for manner
Noun
  • Global interest in curling surged over the past week when a cheating controversy erupted at the Winter Olympics, rocking a staid, 500-year-old sport known for its etiquette, manners and friendliness.
    Steve Douglas, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026
  • In fact, modern etiquette dictates that the one who invites is the one who should pay.
    Harriette Cole, Mercury News, 17 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • By this point in their trip to Nepal, the pair was deep in reflective mode, learning and sharing all sorts of things about and with each other.
    Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 16 Feb. 2026
  • Both with features like adjustable suspension, multiple riding modes, heated grips and seats, and Pirelli tires.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The Aspen Classic, which each June since 1983 has brought hundreds of wineries and up to 5,000 visitors to that Colorado ski town, is considered the premier event of its kind by many wine aficionados - bringing in top winemakers, superstar chefs, even Hollywood celebs.
    Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2026
  • The Lindner family released a statement following the death of Christopher Lindner, describing him as a loving, kind, Christ Jesus follower, husband, and father of four who had suffered from mental illness.
    Gillian Stawiszynski, Cincinnati Enquirer, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • But global warming threw a wrench into this method.
    Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Credit cards, debit cards and mobile payment methods are accepted.
    Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Family members of the victims who attended the execution told The Associated Press they were unsettled by Simpson's demeanor in the death chamber.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 12 Feb. 2026
  • Ōkunoshima is home to over 1,000 rabbits, who roam the island freely, and are known for their unusually friendly demeanor.
    Madeline Weinfield, Travel + Leisure, 9 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The micro-style, trimmed with frills along the back, quickly found its way onto creator Devon Lee Carlson and rap artist Sexy Redd at Coachella, before subsequently selling out on the brand’s site.
    Amy Francombe, Vogue, 20 Feb. 2026
  • While the weight and material of the set is noteworthy, the beautiful matelassé-style pattern—complete with floral motifs and geometric designs—adds a sophisticated touch to any space.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • This week, Bill White, the US ambassador to Belgium, criticized the country for its approach to Jewish ritual circumcision and accused the country of antisemitism.
    Christian Edwards, CNN Money, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Dr Amgad Rezk said the process offered significant advantages for industry, with an energy-efficient and scalable approach.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 21 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Plus, shifts in attitude toward police are not always about single acts but about the weight of national controversies placed on their shoulders, Cross pointed out.
    Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026
  • The contrast between the dark shoes and the light denim creates a figure-lengthening balance that’s ideal for those who love basics with a street style star’s attitude.
    Alex Sales, Glamour, 15 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Manner.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/manner. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

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