demeanor
UK[dɪˈmiːnə]US[dɪˈmiːnər]
n
the way a person looks and behaves, which shows their character or feelings
Morpheme Breakdown
de
mean
or
de
completely
mean
to lead, to drive
or
agent suffix
Etymology
the word "demeanor" originates from the middle english "demenen," meaning "to conduct oneself," which was borrowed from old french "demener." this old french term is a compound of the latin prefix "de-" (completely) and the verb "minare" (to drive, to lead animals). the literal sense was "to lead or drive something thoroughly," which evolved into the idea of managing or conducting oneself. the modern spelling and meaning, referring specifically to one's outward behavior or bearing, solidified by the 15th century, retaining the core concept of how one "drives" or presents oneself to the world.
Analysis
Structure: de (completely) + mean (to lead, to drive) + or (agent suffix)
- de: a latin prefix meaning "completely, thoroughly, down, away".
- mean: from the latin verb "mināre", a variant of "minārī" meaning "to threaten, to drive (animals)".
- or: a latin agent noun suffix indicating a person or thing that performs an action.
Examples
his calm demeanor helped to reassure the nervous passengers.
despite the pressure, she maintained a professional demeanor throughout the meeting.
the teacher's friendly demeanor made the new students feel welcome.