close-by
Americanadjective
Usage
What does close-by mean? Close-by describes someone or something that is physically near, as in The coffee shop close-by my office is always crowded, so I walk a few more blocks to get coffee. What is considered close-by is highly subjective. For example, if most restaurants are a 15-minute drive away from you, a restaurant that is only 2 minutes away is close-by in comparison. If you usually walk at least 20 minutes to get anywhere, then a place that is only 5 minutes away is close-by. Close-by is also used to describe something as accessible. Keeping something close-by means keeping it within reach or in the same general area. For example, you might keep your mobile phone close-by your person, such as in a purse or bag, so that you can quickly grab it. Close-by is sometimes spelled closeby. Example: If you need to pick up more nails, I think there’s a hardware store close-by.
Etymology
Origin of close-by
First recorded in 1620–30
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A spokesperson for the Indian Air Force told Reuters that it will "deploy comprehensive measures for integrated aerospace defence in the Delhi and close-by areas."
From Reuters ● Sep. 1, 2023
Locals have taken to praying by the sports center in the close-by city of Crotone, where coffins sit, waiting for burial.
From New York Times ● Mar. 16, 2023
Other close-by trails wend past waterfalls, huge Douglas fir trees in this Valley of the Giants and what’s been called the world’s largest Sitka spruce.
From Seattle Times ● Feb. 8, 2023
“The most intense area of drought is centered in northern Montgomery and Frederick Counties, Md., with a very strong gradient seen to very wet areas in close-by D.C.,”
From Washington Post ● Aug. 31, 2022
“So, I just wanted to say,” the close-by voice says.
From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
