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 Filming the kiss scene in public with dozens of bystanders armed with cell phone watching proved a challenge but, luckily, no one ruined the surprise. — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 4 Nov. 2026 No bystanders were injured in the shooting, according to police. — Dejanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 3 Nov. 2026 Investigators believe the girl and two adults who were shot were innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire after an argument escalated into gunfire, according to police. — ABC News, 3 Nov. 2026 The bystander later gave an interview to Los Angeles City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian, who posted their conversation on social media. — Greta Bjornson, PEOPLE, 3 Nov. 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 11 Nov. 2026.

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