Misbehave/ˌmɪsbɪˈheɪv/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Child Behavior Often used for children, suggesting a lapse in manners or discipline. The children usually misbehave when they're tired. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Actions Implies actions are intentional or due to lack of control. The teenager was grounded for misbehaving at the party. Pro Tip 3/3Setting Matters Context where misbehavior occurs affects the understanding of the action. He tends to misbehave in large gatherings.