Behest

/bɪˈhɛst/ · noun

Meaning

A command, bidding; sometimes also, an authoritative request; now usually in the phrase at the behest of and at one's behest..

Definitions by Sense

1. A command, bidding; sometimes also, an authoritative request; now usually in the phrase at the behest of and at one's behest.
2. (obsolete) A vow; a promise.
3. (obsolete) To promise; vow.

Example Sentences

Moſt great and puiſant Monarke of the earth, Your Baſſoe wil accompliſh your beheſt: […]

to do his master's high behest

I have spells for the north, I have charms for the west, / And the south and the east must obey my behest.

Paul did not dare pronounce, let matters rest, / His master having given him no behest.

The London Midland Region has announced receipt of authority from the Ministry of Transport to resume the reconstruction of Stafford station and layout, interrupted at the Minister's behest; contracts have now been placed for the erection of the new station buildings and the yardmaster's office.

Sophie felt she should sit on too though she knew it to be an irrational fantasy of hers that these little services were held at his behest.

And young Mr. Fleetwood Vibe was here at the behest of his father, Wall Street eminence Scarsdale Vibe, who was effectively bankrolling the Expedition.

the House of Representatives will try to water down even this feeble effort at the behest of the unions whose members enjoy some of the most lavish policies.

Synonyms for behest

Antonyms for behest

Related Words

Word Forms

• behests
• behesting
• behested

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions