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.
While a date for the vote hasn’t been set, the filing indicates the deal is expected to close by the end of 2026.
From Barron's • Jun. 24, 2026
By speaking to neighbours and showing them the footage, he was able to quickly establish the identity of the offender, and the fact that he lived close by.
From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026
Seeing deep tracks right after a rain shower can mean the lynx is very close by.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026
The deal has been unanimously approved by both companies’ boards and is expected to close by the end of 2026.
From Barron's • May 18, 2026
He sets down one ice water with a slice of lemon perfectly placed on the top of the glass—far enough away so it’s out of Hector’s reach—and one spoon close by.
From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
