go-by

[ goh-bahy ]

noun

, Informal.

1. a going by without notice; an intentional passing by; snub:

   to give one the go-by.

go-by

¹

noun

1. slang.
   a deliberate snub or slight (esp in the phrase give ( a person ) the go-by )

go by

²

verb

1. to pass

   don't let those opportunities go by!

   as the years go by we all get older

   the cars went by

2. preposition to be guided by

   in the darkness we could only go by the stars

3. preposition to use as a basis for forming an opinion or judgment

   it's wise not to go only by appearances

Word History and Origins

Origin of go-by¹

First recorded in 1605–15; noun use of verb phrase go by

Example Sentences

Now this was the first time that I had supposed dead deer come to life and give me the go-by, though it was not the last time.

From Project Gutenberg

"He's one of your old fellers as you've give the go-by to, I kind of suspicion, Sis," replied the young man with a laugh.

From Project Gutenberg

We had already given one or two the go-by, when we heard a clattering of hoofs close behind us, and the well-known cry, "G'lang."

From Project Gutenberg

They beckoned very urgently for us to come ashore, but I acted as if I did not understand them, and gave them the go-by.

From Project Gutenberg

To avert this catastrophe, Winnie determined to give the go-by to coy modesty.

From Project Gutenberg