behest Meaning, Definition & Usage

Be*hest" noun

Etymology

OE. biheste promise, command, AS. behs promise; pref. be- + hs command. See Hest, Hight.

Definitions

1. That which is willed or ordered; a command; a mandate; an injunction.

   To do his master's high behest. Sir W. Scott.

2. A vow; a promise. Obs.

   The time is come that I should send it her, if I keep the behest that I have made. Paston.

Be*hest" transitive verb

Definitions

1. To vow. Obs. Paston.