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

Months later, a psychiatrist evaluated Acacio at the behest of the medical board and found he has a “mental condition affecting his ability to practice medicine safely,” according to the document.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 3, 2026

He’s accusing them of betraying the U.S. at the behest of nefarious interests he didn’t identify, no doubt because they don’t exist.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 20, 2026

This month, Australia's federal police charged two Chinese nationals with foreign interference, accusing them of spying on a Buddhist group at the behest of police in China.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

"As to Dagmer, the Cleftjaw is gone to Old Wyk at your father's behest, to roust the Stonehouses and the Drumms."

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin