Misbehave Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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misbehave

[หŒmษชsbษชหˆheษชv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in social situations

To behave badly or inappropriately; to act in a way that is not acceptable or expected.

Synonyms

act out, act up, be naughty.

Examples of usage

  • He was sent to the principal's office for misbehaving in class.
  • The children were misbehaving at the party, running around and shouting.
Context #2 | Verb

in relationships

To behave in a way that is not socially acceptable or polite; to act in a rude or disrespectful manner.

Synonyms

act inappropriately, be disrespectful, behave badly.

Examples of usage

  • She misbehaved by speaking rudely to her elders.
  • He misbehaved by not following the rules of the group.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'misbehave'

The word 'misbehave' originated from the combination of the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'badly' or 'wrongly' and the verb 'behave'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century. The concept of behaving in a socially unacceptable manner has been a part of human society for centuries, with various cultural norms and expectations dictating what is considered appropriate behavior.


See also: behave, behavior, behaviour, misbehaving.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,649 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.