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
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
In another tense moment captured on video, a Border Patrol agent again orders bystanders to move back.
—
Sophia Compton, FOXNews.com, 12 Jan. 2026
The shooting was captured from several angles on video by bystanders and by law enforcement.
—Michael McAuliffe, Sun Sentinel, 11 Jan. 2026
That extraordinary footage, along with video shot by bystanders and a 3D model created by CNN of the confrontation, shows Good and her wife challenging ICE officers – but also raises new questions about Ross’s tactics and decision to use deadly force.
—Allison Gordon, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026
Many Americans are debating whether the shooting was justified after videos taken by bystanders and cellphone footage from the officer were released, leading to protests around the country.
—Grace Miserocchi, Chicago Tribune, 10 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for bystander
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Sophia Compton, FOXNews.com, 12 Jan. 2026
The shooting was captured from several angles on video by bystanders and by law enforcement.
—Michael McAuliffe, Sun Sentinel, 11 Jan. 2026
That extraordinary footage, along with video shot by bystanders and a 3D model created by CNN of the confrontation, shows Good and her wife challenging ICE officers – but also raises new questions about Ross’s tactics and decision to use deadly force.
—Allison Gordon, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026
Many Americans are debating whether the shooting was justified after videos taken by bystanders and cellphone footage from the officer were released, leading to protests around the country.
—Grace Miserocchi, Chicago Tribune, 10 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for bystander
Cite this Entry
“Bystander.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bystander. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
bystander
noun
by·stand·er
-ˌstan-dər
: a person standing near but taking no part in what is happening
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