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

With only weeks to go before election day, both newspapers declined to endorse either candidate in the presidential race at the behest of their owners.

From Los Angeles Times

The band formed in the 2010s at the behest of the judges of the British talent show "The X Factor."

From Salon

But there’s got to be a morning after, and reality comes knocking on the door one day at the behest of Ivan’s parents.

From Los Angeles Times

But he added that such sentiments do not absolve Hezbollah of blame for pushing Lebanon into war and tying its fate to the situation in Gaza — all at Iran’s behest.

From Los Angeles Times

It is a clear reference to a tape played at Chavez’s trial of a legal visit with Luis “Hefty” Garcia, a client of Chavez’s who wore a wire at the behest of the FBI.

From Los Angeles Times