standby

American  

[stand-bahy] / ˈstændˌbaɪ /

Or stand-by

noun

plural

standbys

1. a staunch supporter or adherent; one who can be relied upon.

2. something upon which one can rely and therefore choose or use regularly.

3. something or someone held ready to serve as a substitute, especially a radio or television program used as a filler in case of cancellation of a regularly scheduled program.

4. a traveler who is waiting for last-minute accommodations to become available on a plane, train, or other transport as a result of a cancellation.

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adjective

1. kept readily available for use in an emergency, shortage, or the like.

   a standby player.

2. of or relating to last-minute accommodations, the transport that offers them, or a traveler who is waiting for them.

   a standby flight.

3. of or relating to a waiting period.

idioms

1. on standby, in a state of readiness to act, respond, or be used immediately when needed.

Etymology

Origin of standby

First recorded in 1790–1800; noun, adj. use of verb phrase stand by

Example Sentences

Koo said combat exercise and training missions have been suspended for the inspection of F-16s, but "alert and standby duties will be maintained."

From Barron's

Other arrivals into Athens were placed on standby, while flights in and out of other Greek airports have also been affected.

From BBC

The UK Foreign Office said its "thoughts are with all those injured and killed in the terrible tragedy" and consular staff were on standby to provide support to any British nationals affected.

From BBC

Consular staff are on standby to support any British nationals affected, a Foreign Office statement said.

From BBC

"Obviously we've got it for the cold months. We've got the central heating on more. It's made a big difference. You know it's coming, so it's your standby," said Mr Jones.

From BBC