behave

v.

1. To act

   perform, work, run, function; see act 1.

2. To act in a specified or proper way

   conduct oneself, acquit oneself, deport oneself, comport oneself, handle oneself, demean oneself, acquit oneself well, act with decorum, observe the golden rule, be nice, be good, be civil, act properly, mind one's p's and q's, be orderly, obey, play one's part, observe the rules, observe the law, reform, mind one's manners, manage oneself, discipline oneself, be on one's best behavior, act one's age, avoid offense, keep the peace, toe the mark, toe the line*, shape up*, stay in line*, keep out of mischief*; see also act 2.

   Antonyms misbehave*, be rude, offend.

behave, used reflexively (as also the other words in this comparison), implies action in conformity with the required standards of decorum did the children behave themselves?; conduct implies the direction or guidance of one's actions in a specified way she conducted herself well at the trial; comport and esp. deport suggest behavior in accordance with the fixed rules of society they deported themselves like gentlemen; acquit suggests behavior in accordance with the duties of one's position or with one's obligations the rookie acquitted himself like a major leaguer; demean suggests behavior or appearance that is indicative of the specified character trait she demeaned herself like a gracious hostess