Synonyms of behest

behest

noun

bi-ˈhest 

as in edict

a statement of what to do that must be obeyed by those concerned

I only made the change at the author's behest

Synonyms & Similar Words

• edict
• instruction
• order
• direction
• directive
• do
• injunction
• decree
• command
• commandment
• imperative
• requirement
• dictate
• charge
• demand
• word
• mandate
• law
• rule
• statute
• regulation
• ordinance
• countermand
• counterorder
• prescription
• precept
• prescript

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• petition
• appeal
• plea
• proposal
• recommendation
• urging
• entreaty
• suggestion

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of behest

At Bono’s behest, Garrix gradually began building the confidence to step behind the mic. — Rachel Narozniak, Rolling Stone, 21 Oct. 2026

Prosecutors say Zhang, who also goes by Heather, spied on a son of Taiwan’s president outside his home in the Seattle area at the behest of Chinese officials. — David Douglas, NBC news, 19 Oct. 2026

At the behest of astronomers and other experts, the first leap second was added to UTC in 1972 to realign the time standard with Earth’s rotation. — Emma Gometz, Scientific American, 15 Oct. 2026

Modi has secured extraordinary loyalty within his BJP through an implicit assurance that those who act at the government’s behest will be protected from the consequences of their actions. — Pratap Bhanu Mehta, Foreign Affairs, 15 Oct. 2026

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!