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 actress was not in attendance, and presenters Melissa McCarthy and Kathryn Hahn accepted it on her behalf. —Breanne L. Heldman, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026

Some might accept a lien or letter of protection, which meant they would not be paid until lawsuits like those that would be filed on Barb’s and Sharon’s behalf settled. —Literary Hub, 12 Jan. 2026

Instead, presenters Melissa McCarthy and Kathryn Hahn accepted the trophy for Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series or Motion Picture Made for Television on her behalf. —Raechal Shewfelt, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Jan. 2026

Rick Wolf, a pioneer of fantasy sports who, more recently, has lobbied on behalf of the Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association, assured me that sportsbooks go to great lengths to promote responsible gaming. —Vanity Fair, 12 Jan. 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 someone's behalf

Rhymes for behalf

• carafe
• digraph
• distaff
• falstaff
• giraffe
• subgraph
• autograph
• biograph
• cenotaph
• chronograph
• epigraph
• epitaph

Kids Definition

behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhȧf

: useful aid : support

spoke in my behalf