Dictionary entry

Behest

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Be‐hest″ (�), n. [OE. biheste promise, command, AS. behǣs promise; pref. be- + hǣs command. See Hest, Hight.] 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.

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

Paston.