Dictionary entry

Behave (2)

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Be‐have″, v. i. To act; to conduct; to bear or carry one's self; as, to behave well or ill.

☞ This verb is often used colloquially without an adverb of manner; as, if he does not behave, he will be punished. It is also often applied to inanimate objects; as, the ship behaved splendidly.