behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf How to pronounce behalf (audio)
-ˈhäf
bē-
: interest, benefit
also : support, defense
argued in his behalf
see also:
On Behalf of vs. in Behalf of: Usage Guide

A body of opinion favors in with the "interest, benefit" sense of behalf and on with the "support, defense" sense. This distinction has been observed by some writers but overall has never had a sound basis in actual usage. In current British use, on behalf (of) has replaced in behalf (of); both are still used in American English, but the distinction is frequently not observed.

Examples of behalf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scott Wagers, a recipient of 10 Little Caesars pizzas that were given out on behalf of CHAM Deliverance Ministry, a local charity that feeds the homeless, recalled being shocked that the athlete showed up to deliver the food himself. Desiree Anello, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026 The open air screening for some 4,500 spectators will kick-off a summer preview tour across Italy for the film ahead of an August 26 release by 01 Distribution on behalf of Minerva Pictures with Rai Cinema. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 13 June 2026 The new agentic experience, that acts autonomously on the user’s behalf, is expected to be restricted to the most recent Samsung and Google phones. Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026 The basic idea is an AI system that can handle long and complex tasks on your behalf like an advanced digital assistant. Arjun Kharpal,kai Nicol-Schwarz, CNBC, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for behalf

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from by + half half, side

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of behalf was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Behalf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behalf. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

behalf

noun
be·​half bi-ˈhaf How to pronounce behalf (audio)
-ˈhȧf
: useful aid : support
spoke in my behalf

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