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.
The Cubans were performing missions on behalf of the Cuban Armed Forces and interior ministry, the country’s presidential office said on Facebook. Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 5 Jan. 2026 The role includes writing letters on behalf of the nation’s Royal family, paying £32,000 ($43,000) a year for the job. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 5 Jan. 2026 Baña filed the complaint on behalf of another member of the board, who remains unidentified. Dennis Valera, CBS News, 5 Jan. 2026 The federal government settled a class-action lawsuit on behalf of some 1,600 then-inmates for approximately $10 million in 2023. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 5 Jan. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Behalf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behalf. Accessed 6 Jan. 2026.

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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