behalf

noun

be·​half bi-ˈhaf How to pronounce behalf (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
They are accused of assisting in the preparation of false income tax returns on behalf of clients who used the tax shelter. Logan Smith, CBS News, 28 Dec. 2025 The Sikh Coalition and Asian Law Caucus filed the class-action lawsuit on behalf of five commercial driver's license holders, challenging the DMV's decision to revoke licenses. Nilesh Christopher Los Angeles Times, Arkansas Online, 27 Dec. 2025 The judge in the Cowichan case offered little guidance to private landowners, and mostly recommended that the provincial government negotiate with the Cowichan on their behalf. David Frum, The Atlantic, 27 Dec. 2025 Once enrolled, you’ll be asked to stop making debt payments while the company negotiates on your behalf. Jasmin Suknanan, CNBC, 26 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for behalf

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from by + half half, side

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of behalf was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Behalf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behalf. Accessed 30 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

behalf

noun
be·​half bi-ˈhaf How to pronounce behalf (audio)
-ˈhȧf
: useful aid : support
spoke in my behalf

More from Merriam-Webster on behalf

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