behest

American  

[bih-hest] / bɪˈhɛst /

noun

1. a command or directive.

   Synonyms:

   mandate, dictate, decree, bidding, order

2. an earnest or strongly worded request.

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behest British  

/ bɪˈhɛst /

noun

1. an authoritative order or earnest request

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Etymology

Origin of behest

before 1000; Middle English bihest ( e ), Old English behǣs promise. See be-, hest

Explanation

Behest is an authoritative command or request. If your boss or principal asks to see you, you go to their office at their behest. Behest rhymes with "request" and they almost mean the same thing, if you give your request a little authoritative oomph, just a tad bit of "or else." Another difference between these words is that you can't use behest as a verb: You can't behest someone. You act according to their behest. The root word here is the Old English hehaes, means "a vow."

Example Sentences

He set his sights on Greenland, apparently at the behest of a cosmetics heir pal.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

It also leaves them at the behest of wealthy firms in far-flung states with no ties to or understanding of the communities the medical practices serve.

From Slate • Mar. 17, 2026

Mayra Jimenez’s body was found early Wednesday morning when Los Angeles Police Department officers performed a wellness check at her North Hollywood home at the behest of her husband.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 24, 2026

They formed this collective in 2024 at the behest of Don Was, Blue Note’s president, to mark the 85th anniversary of the label, which is as venerable as any in jazz.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 25, 2025

My parents have come from all the way across the city at the behest of the messenger boy Father Masego sent for them.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray