bystander

noun

by·​stand·​er ˈbī-ˌstan-dər 

: one who is present but not taking part in a situation or event : a chance spectator

innocent bystanders who were injured in the shooting

Synonyms of bystander

• observer
• spectator
• viewer

Examples of bystander in a Sentence

Two innocent bystanders were injured in the shooting.

bystanders rushed to help the victim of the mugging

Recent Examples on the Web

As the confrontation draws the attention of several people nearby, at least three drivers pull into the nearby parking lot and exit their vehicles, joining other bystanders, some recording. — Julianna Bragg, CNN Money, 24 Sep. 2026

Unfortunately, like an innocent bystander caught in a crossfire, the Land of Lincoln is getting hit as well. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

The victim fell to the ground and stopped breathing and had to have CPR performed by bystanders, the report says. — Arkansas Online, 23 Sep. 2026

Despite the traffic delays, residents said the response from bystanders and emergency personnel reflected the city's willingness to help when needed. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1584, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bystander

• commander
• expander
• highlander
• leander
• meander
• philander
• brander
• candor
• dander
• gander
• grander
• hander

Kids Definition

bystander

noun

by·​stand·​er -ˌstan-dər 

: a person standing near but taking no part in what is happening