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

Those were handled on his behalf by Fidelity Brokerage Services, according to a company filings with the SEC. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 14 Aug. 2026

But the judge also noted Krneta’s dual role in facilitating the corruption of Tobolski, both paying bribes and collecting extortion payments from other contractors on the then-mayor’s behalf. — Jason Meisner, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026

His allies in the legal community especially recalled his work on behalf of the mentally ill through the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, or BBHC, which manages state and federal grants for substance abuse and mental health programs. — Steve Bousquet, Sun Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026

Arjun Aravind, 17, was wearing handcuffs when a not guilty plea to murder and several other charges was entered on his behalf at his arraignment Thursday morning in Concord District Court. — Mike Toole, CBS News, 13 Aug. 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 behalf of someone
• 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