An authoritative order or urgent request; a command or directive from someone in authority.
From Old English 'behǣs' meaning 'promise, command,' from 'be-' (thoroughly) + 'hǣs' (command). Related to 'hest' (command), now archaic, the word maintained its formal, authoritative tone through centuries.
This word preserves an ancient Germanic concept of binding commands that appears in epic poetry like Beowulf. Unlike casual requests, 'behest' implies both authority and obligation, making it perfect for formal or dramatic contexts.
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