Demeanor is the way you present yourself through your behavior, facial expressions, and overall manner. It's the outward impression you give others by how you carry yourself and act.

When a teacher has a calm demeanor, students feel at ease because the teacher seems relaxed and in control. When someone has a confident demeanor, they walk with their head up, make eye contact, and speak clearly. A nervous demeanor might show through fidgeting hands, avoiding eye contact, or speaking quietly.

Your demeanor reveals how you're feeling and what kind of person you are, at least in that moment. A judge maintains a serious demeanor in court to show the importance of the proceedings. A store clerk with a friendly demeanor smiles and speaks warmly to customers. Sometimes people deliberately change their demeanor to fit different situations: you might have a playful demeanor with friends but shift to a more respectful demeanor when meeting your grandmother's friends.

Notice that demeanor is about the manner and style of your actions. Two students could both be working on math problems, but one has a focused, determined demeanor while the other has a frustrated, discouraged demeanor. Your demeanor communicates to others even before you say a word.