How to Pronounce Behave

To pronounce "behave", say BEH-av-e — 3 syllables, IPA /bəˈheɪv/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

behave

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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3

Syllables

6

Letters

/bəˈheɪv/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “behave”

"behave" has 3 syllables: beh-av-e. It rhymes with enclave and waive, if that helps it stick.

What does behave mean?

verb

  1. To conduct (oneself) well, or in a given way.

    “You need to behave yourself, young lady.”

  2. To act, conduct oneself in a specific manner; used with an adverbial of manner.

    “He behaves like a child whenever she's around.”

Hear “behave” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with behave

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

enclavewaivecravewavebraveknavelaveconcavecavedepraveconclaverave

Related words

deportconductcomportacquitdocarryactbear

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "behave"?▾

"Behave" has 3 syllables: beh · av · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "behave"?▾

The IPA transcription of "behave" is /bəˈheɪv/.

What does "behave" mean?▾

Behave: To conduct (oneself) well, or in a given way.

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