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

On November 3, the king poked fun at himself, making a self-deprecating joke on his behalf at a dinner for leaders of the Commonwealth. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 4 Nov. 2026

Narita was not at the ceremony, and Mishima accepted on his behalf. — Mark Schilling, Variety, 4 Nov. 2026

Online records do not list an attorney who could comment on his behalf, and several relatives didn’t immediately respond to social media messages seeking comment. — Ed White, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026

Another big issue Evans addressed was his having power of attorney over Holmes, and using her X account to tweet on her behalf. — Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 3 Nov. 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