Synonyms of standbys

standbys

noun

plural of standby

as in anchors

something or someone to which one looks for support

our old standby in times of trouble

Synonyms & Similar Words

• anchors
• mainstays
• backbones
• pillars
• crutches
• buttresses
• spines
• sinews
• reliances
• dependences
• props
• right hands
• refuges
• handmaidens
• anchorages
• stays
• harbors
• bolsterers

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of standbys

Make a version of one of Bon Appétit’s swankiest yet simplest party tricks—marinated salami and almonds—with Trader Joe’s standbys. — Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 5 Nov. 2026

Formulas packed with oils, butters, and skin-care standbys like hyaluronic acid are always helpful. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026

But anyone returning to their old lunchtime standbys is likely to find a different kind of restaurant waiting for them — one that seemingly highlights everything on the menu except traditional salads. — Renée Onque, CNBC, 18 Aug. 2026

Becoming a content creator has officially elbowed out old standbys like doctor and astronaut as the job that Gen Z and Gen Alpha most aspire to have. — Julianna Pillemer, The Conversation, 18 Aug. 2026

Colors like the perfectly balanced red Ruby Woo, deep beige Velvet Teddy and bright orchid Heroine are beauty-industry standbys, and the brand offers more than 150 lipstick shades in total. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026

Sports from the traditional standbys (artistic gymnastics) to the newest additions (flag football, lacrosse and squash) all sold through their first-drop availability. — Los Angeles Times, 29 July 2026

Old standbys have been reborn, too. — Staff Author, Travel + Leisure, 8 June 2026

While the appetite for $500-per-person omakase may be cooling slightly, Indian and Levantine spots are as in-demand as the city’s classic steakhouses and French and Italian standbys. — Beth Landman, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2026