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Definition of bystander

bystander

/ˈbaɪˌstæn.dɚ/
by · stand · er
Plural:bystanders
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bystander Lexical Profile

bystander Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part in it.

Example

"Several curious bystanders gathered on the sidewalk to watch the street performers."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

bypass
byproduct
byroad
bystander
byte
byway
byword

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 17th century, formed as a compound of the adverb 'by' (meaning near or aside) and 'stander' (one who stands), modeled on the earlier verb 'bystand'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bystander. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bystander
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