noun

bystander

bystander, onlooker, witness

A bystander helped the injured person.

A bystander helped the injured person.

Many bystanders just watched the accident.

Many bystanders just watched the accident.

((a/the)) bystander a person who is present at an event but does not take part A bystander reported the crime to the police.

Synonyms: onlooker, observer, witness; Antonyms: participant, perpetrator

From 'by' (near) + 'stander' (one who stands). Literally, someone standing near an event.

Picture someone who is just 'standing by' the side of an event, not getting involved.

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