bystander

[bahy-stan-der]

noun

1. a person present but not involved; chance spectator; onlooker.

   Synonyms: sidewalk superintendent, rubberneck, witness, passerby, viewer, observer

bystander

/ ˈbaɪˌstændə /

noun

1. a person present but not involved; onlooker; spectator

Word History and Origins

Origin of bystander¹

First recorded in 1610–20; by- + stand ( def. ) + -er ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

The first fire captain on scene used the help of about 15 bystanders to lift part of the helicopter off one of the victims who was trapped underneath, Sylvia said.

From Los Angeles Times

The American people now have to choose if they will be bystanders or agents in their own destiny.

From Salon

Dozens of street vendors — selling freshly made orange juice, ice cream, hot dogs and flags — walked with the crowd, and several bystanders filmed from their apartment balconies.

From Los Angeles Times

The woman pulls into a driveway, exits her car and grabs another bystander.

From Salon

What remains is a flattened, inaccurate history that centers white heterosexual Christian men as the architects of American greatness, relegating others to mere bystanders or occupying passive, supporting roles.

From Salon

Related Words

• eyewitness 
• observer 
• onlooker 
• passerby 
• spectator