behest

[bih-hest]

noun

1. a command or directive.

   Synonyms: mandate, dictate, decree, bidding, order

2. an earnest or strongly worded request.

behest

/ bɪˈhɛst /

noun

1. an authoritative order or earnest request

Word History and Origins

Origin of behest¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of behest¹

Old English behǣs , from behātan ; see _be- , _hest

Example Sentences

Divorced for 14 years, I’ve been out on the hustings, both on the street and, at my younger brother’s behest, online.

From Los Angeles Times

Many conservative activists and party leaders now claim that some Republicans are being rejected as customers because of their politics — and even at the behest of government regulators.

From Salon

The brief airing of their differences was unusual, coming solely at the behest of your friendly columnist.

From Los Angeles Times

Working at the behest of Loanne Miller, the Colonel’s widow, Guralnick had originally planned to publish a selection of the manager’s letters.

From Salon

At Reid’s behest, the Senate narrowly voted to change its rules and disallow the filibustering of presidential nominees.

From Los Angeles Times