What is the meaning of the word "behalf"?

Definitions:

  1. as the agent of or on someone's part (usually expressed as 'on behalf of' rather than 'in behalf of') copy to clipboard noun
    • the guardian signed the contract on behalf of the minor child copy to clipboard
  2. for someone's benefit (usually expressed as `in behalf' rather than `on behalf' and usually with a possessive) copy to clipboard noun
    • in your behalf copy to clipboard