conduct

Conduct refers to the manner in which a person behaves in a given context. As a noun, it denotes behavior or bearing; as a verb, it means to lead, guide, or manage a task, activity, or process. The term appears in everyday language as well as formal domains, and its meaning can vary with context.

In social and professional settings, conduct is governed by norms, rules, and codes. Codes of conduct outline expected behaviors for members of organizations, and violations may be termed misconduct or breach of conduct. Professional, educational, and legal frameworks use conduct standards to determine eligibility for membership, employment, licensing, or honors. Discussions of conduct often emphasize accountability, ethics, and integrity.

In performance and organizational contexts, to conduct means to direct or oversee an activity: to conduct a meeting, a research study, or a musical performance. In science and engineering, conduct describes the ability of a material to permit the flow of electricity or heat. A conductor is a material with high electrical or thermal conductivity, whereas insulators resist such flow.

The word has Latin roots, from conducere meaning to bring together or to lead. Over time, English adopted a broad sense that encompasses both behavioral expectations and the act of directing processes or systems. Modern usage continues to connect conduct with standards of ethical and professional behavior as well as with physical properties in the natural sciences.