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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

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 This avian bystander may have recognized a fellow bird of prey in Coriolanus, whose role in the Roman ecosystem is necessary yet not fit for all purposes in a young democracy beset with growing pains. Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026 Among the shootings was an incident in September in which two innocent bystanders were struck outside their home. Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 30 June 2026 Tony says no bystanders were hurt and his deputies have only minor cuts and scrapes. S.e. Jenkins, CBS News, 30 June 2026 And robotic martial artists can be dangerous to bystanders, as was recently demonstrated at a Chinese amusement park, where a G1 wearing a clown wig kicked a small child in the stomach. Stephen Witt, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for bystander
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bystander
Noun
  • Aviation observers studying pictures of the aircraft said the new plane appears to lack external modifications to the tail cone associated with a type of directional infrared missile defense system.
    Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 10 July 2026
  • Some market observers contend that concerns about future inflation contribute to higher long-term borrowing costs.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 10 July 2026
Noun
  • The decision drew widespread public anger, both toward the Norwegian government, and toward spectators who sought out Freya and disregarded official warnings.
    Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
  • The weeklong preliminary hearing attracted intense media coverage and spectators who lined up — sometimes overnight — for one of 14 seats in the courtroom reserved for the public.
    Hannah Schoenbaum, Chicago Tribune, 11 July 2026
Noun
  • Through their fantastical ordeals, the X-Men illustrate qualities that inspire viewers, young and old.
    Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026
  • The Women’s World Cup isn’t until 2027, so these viewers aren’t factoring in that the women will likely win some prize money next year that will also be split.
    Emma Hinchliffe, Fortune, 9 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bystander.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bystander. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on bystander

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster