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
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.
At the time, Fedorov served as the minister of digital transformation, a position that gave him no power to buy weapons on the state’s behalf. — Simon Shuster, The Atlantic, 24 July 2026 In January, Rutte intervened to set up a framework for discussing the Greenland question, prompting the Danish defense minister to point out that Rutte could not negotiate on Denmark’s behalf. — Mark Webber, Time, 24 July 2026 The programs were sealed in an isolated environment except for a single link that fetched pre-approved software components from the internet on their behalf. — Craig S. Smith, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026 The man asked for his name to be withheld in case Henrichsen is released from federal custody or had relatives or friends who might retaliate on his behalf. — Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 23 July 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

Phrases Containing behalf

Rhymes for behalf

See All Rhymes for behalf

Browse Nearby Words

be had
behalf
Behan
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Behalf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behalf. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

behalf

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

More from Merriam-Webster on behalf

Nglish: Translation of behalf for Spanish Speakers

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