behaviour
UK: bɪˈheɪvjə | US: bɪˈheɪvjər
n. the way in which one acts or conducts oneself, especially toward others
n. (biology/psychology) the observable actions or reactions of an organism or system
n. (technical) the manner in which a machine or natural phenomenon functions
behaviour = behave<act> + iour<noun suffix (variant of -ior)>
- behave (from Middle English behaven, combining be- (thoroughly) + haven (to hold, from Old English habban), originally meaning "to restrain or comport oneself").
- -iour (a suffix derived from Latin -ior, used to form nouns indicating state or action, later anglicized to -ior or -iour in Old French).
Etymology Origin:
The word behaviour entered English in the late 15th century via Old French behaviour, rooted in the verb behave. The prefix be- intensifies the action, while -haviour (from haven) originally implied self-control. Over time, it broadened to encompass general conduct, influenced by Latin -ior suffixes in scholarly contexts. The modern spelling reflects British English, while behavior (without u) is the American variant.
His polite behaviour impressed everyone at the meeting.
Scientists observed the behaviour of ants under stress.
The software’s erratic behaviour suggests a programming error.
Cultural norms heavily influence social behaviour.
Teachers often reward good behaviour in classrooms.