on behalf of
phrase
variants
or on someone's behalf
1
also US in behalf of someone
or in someone's behalf
: as a representative of someone
The teacher accepted the award on behalf of the class. = The teacher accepted the award on the class's behalf.
2
also US in behalf of someone
or in someone's behalf
: for the benefit of someone : in support of someone
She spoke in behalf of the other candidate.
They're willing to do anything on their child's behalf.
3
: because of someone : to please someone
Don't get up on my behalf.
Cite this Entry
“On behalf of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20behalf%20of. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
