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.
Dance The ballet dancer Misty Copeland’s fight on behalf of Black dancers, who have traditionally been underrepresented in ballet, along with the determination and grace that have characterized her own rise, has arguably transcended the art itself. — Rhoda Feng, New Yorker, 31 July 2026 Colin Gray declined to speak at his sentencing, and his attorneys called no witness to testify on his behalf. — N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 31 July 2026 With these programs, a debt relief expert will negotiate with creditors on a borrower's behalf in an effort to reduce the amount owed, but that approach comes with tradeoffs. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 31 July 2026 Bieniemy was not in court Thursday, an NBC Washington story said, but his public defender appeared on his behalf. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 31 July 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 5 Aug. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on behalf

Nglish: Translation of behalf for Spanish Speakers

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