behalf

be-half · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    In the interest of; for the benefit of (used with "on" or "in").

  2. 2.

    As a representative of; in the name of.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    on behalf of — As a representative of; in the interest of.
  • •
    in behalf of — (mainly US) For the benefit of.
  • •
    on someone's behalf — Acting for someone else.

Related words

See also: interest, represent, sake
Synonyms: account, benefit, interest, sake

Etymology

From Middle English bihalve ("by the side of"), from bi ("by") + halve ("side, half"). Originally meant "by one's side."