behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhäf, 

bē-

: interest, benefit

also : support, defense

argued in his behalf

see also:

on behalf of

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

The paperwork for the letters of administration, which will allow Jean to act on her sister's behalf, has also been taken care of. — Nicole Avery Nichols, Freep.com, 11 Sep. 2026

Stelly and Black Mandala co-founder Michael Kraetzer negotiated the agreement on Anatomica Films’ behalf. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 11 Sep. 2026

Ahead of the Academy Awards victory, Oldman actually accepted an earlier Actor Award victory (then known as a SAG Award) on Ledger’s behalf at the 2009 ceremony. — Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Sep. 2026

In fact, the first lawsuit filed was brought on behalf of advocates for people with disabilities. — Chicago Tribune, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from by + half half, side

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing behalf

• in behalf of someone
• in someone's behalf
• on behalf of
• on someone's behalf

Rhymes for behalf

• carafe
• distaff
• falstaff
• giraffe
• autograph
• biograph
• cenotaph
• chronograph
• epigraph
• epitaph
• hodograph
• holograph

Kids Definition

behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhȧf

: useful aid : support

spoke in my behalf