behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf 

-ˈhäf,

bē-

: interest, benefit

also : support, defense

argued in his behalf

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.

Phrases

on behalf of or in behalf of

: in the interest of

also : as a representative of

I wrote the letter on behalf of my client.

Examples of behalf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But a small number are involved in espionage or other activities on behalf of the [Chinese Communist Party]. —Ashish Valentine, NPR, 29 June 2025

The Maryland Family Institute filed an amicus brief in this case on behalf of concerned families across our state and nation. —Jeffrey S. Trimbath, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2025

There have been reports of mass arrests and even executions of those accused of espionage on behalf of Israel. —Rachel Wolf, FOXNews.com, 28 June 2025

The lawyers who brought the case on behalf of residents of Encanto and southeastern San Diego said the city has three years to show measurable progress toward spreading at least 70% of affordable-housing projects across the city. —Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 June 2025

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 someone
• 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