Definition of bystandernext
as in observer
someone who sees or watches something bystanders rushed to help the victim of the mugging

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bystander Michael Pretti, Alex's father, said this week that the family is still troubled by the bystander videos of the shooting. — ABC News, 29 Oct. 2026 Michael Pretti, Alex’s father, said this week that the family is still troubled by the bystander videos of the shooting. — Nicholas Riccardi, Chicago Tribune, 29 Oct. 2026 Instead of calling and waiting for medical responders, Antevy said a bystander should begin CPR immediately. — Zoey Thomas, Sun Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026 FalcoNet, meanwhile, has drawn criticism from advocacy groups concerned the technology is used to unconstitutionally track not only suspects but also innocent bystanders. — Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 27 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bystander
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bystander
Noun
  • Instead, voters exercised their rights on what many voting observers considered to be a fairly normal Election Day.
    — Miles Parks, NPR, 4 Nov. 2026
  • In most other shots, the DS9ers became background observers in existing scenes.
    — Richard Edwards, Space.com, 4 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • What was once a relatively straightforward athletic competition has become a large-scale production, with elaborate start areas, entertainment, spectator experiences and increasingly demanding safety requirements.
    — Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 5 Nov. 2026
  • Doncic also was involved in a situation that led to a spectator being removed from his seat near the baseline.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 5 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • The source notes that viewers often become emotionally invested in victims’ stories and want to see perpetrators held accountable, missing people found and unanswered questions resolved.
    — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 3 Nov. 2026
  • The six-episode thriller paints an eerie image of small-town life in Newfoundland, and viewers are intrigued by the mystique of the striking Canadian backdrop.
    — Rachel Chang, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bystander.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bystander. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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