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.
For starters, all consumers using an agent in the federal marketplace will need to get a one-time confirmation code or link to authorize a specific agent to enroll them or make changes on their behalf. — Julie Appleby, Miami Herald, 28 Oct. 2026 The Republican Party of Florida recently filed a lawsuit on his behalf, trying to stop Democratic TV ads that mentioned the grand jury report, which portrayed Uthmeier at the center of the scheme to defraud taxpayers for political purposes. — Jeffrey Schweers, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026 Musician Rain Phoenix — sister of Joaquin and River Phoenix — will also receive organization’s Spirit of Elysium honor for her work on behalf of the communities The Art of Elysium serves. — Kirsten Chuba, HollywoodReporter, 28 Oct. 2026 Brand then revealed that not a single person with relevant information agreed to testify on his behalf in the trial. — Ellise Shafer, Variety, 28 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing behalf

Rhymes for behalf

See All Rhymes for behalf

Browse Nearby Words

be had
behalf
Behan
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Behalf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behalf. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

behalf

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