noun
bystander
BEYE-stand-uh
Bystander (noun) means a person who is present at an event but does not take part in it. Example: “Several bystanders called for an ambulance after the accident.”
noun
1
A person who is present at an event but does not take part in it.
"Several bystanders called for an ambulance after the accident."
"An innocent bystander was caught up in the confusion."
"Conservative influencer Nick Sortor is handcuffed Thursday night by a police officer outside an ICE facility in Portland, Oregon, a bystander video shows; the video does not show events leading up to the arrest."
— Andy Rose, Arrest of conservative influencer Nick Sortor outside Portland ICE building now under federal investigation (2025)
How to use bystander
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who watches an event happen without being involved in it.
Common pairings
an innocent bystander
passive bystander
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Word forms
- Plural
- bystanders
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Several _____ called for an ambulance after the accident.
Etymology
From by- + stander — literally "one who stands by" and watches.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for bystander
See all rhymes for bystander →Frequently asked questions
What does “bystander” mean?
The word “bystander” means a person who is present at an event but does not take part in it. In plain terms, someone who watches an event happen without being involved in it.
How do you pronounce “bystander”?
“Bystander” is pronounced BEYE-stand-uh (/ˈbaɪˌstænd.ə(ɹ)/ in IPA).
How do you use “bystander” in a sentence?
Here is “bystander” used in a sentence: “Several bystanders called for an ambulance after the accident.”
What part of speech is “bystander”?
“Bystander” is a noun.
