misbehave
|mis/be/have|
B2
/ˌmɪsbɪˈheɪv/
act improperly
Etymology
Etymology Information
'misbehave' originates from Middle English, specifically the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and the verb 'behave' meaning 'to conduct oneself.'
Historical Evolution
'misbehave' changed from the Middle English word 'misbehaven' and eventually became the modern English word 'misbehave'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to conduct oneself wrongly,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to act in an inappropriate or improper manner.
The children were warned not to misbehave during the ceremony.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35
