Misbehave

/ˌmɪs.bɪˈheɪv/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to behave badly or improperly

The children began to misbehave when the teacher left the room.

to act in a way that is not acceptable or socially appropriate

He was told he would be grounded if he continued to misbehave during family gatherings.

to fail to conform to expected standards of conduct

If you misbehave at the park, you might be asked to leave.

Derived from the prefix 'mis-' meaning 'wrongly' and the verb 'behave'.

misbehaving in class

acting disruptively or inappropriately during lessons

misbehave like a child

to act immaturely or irresponsibly

misbehave with consequences

to act improperly and face repercussions

misconduct

wrong behavior, especially by a professional or official

indiscipline

lack of discipline; disobedience

childishness

the quality of being immature or behaving like a child

act out

He tends to act out when he doesn’t get his way.

throw a tantrum

She threw a tantrum when her request was denied.