bystander

noun

by·​stand·​er ˈbī-ˌstan-dər 

: one who is present but not taking part in a situation or event : a chance spectator

innocent bystanders who were injured in the shooting

Synonyms

• observer
• onlooker
• spectator
• viewer
• watcher

Examples of bystander in a Sentence

Two innocent bystanders were injured in the shooting.

bystanders rushed to help the victim of the mugging

Recent Examples on the Web

Footage shot by bystanders of the aftermath showed the street below littered with debris as hundreds evacuated the area. —Alexandra Banner, CNN, 13 Feb. 2025

These small-yet-mighty keychains blast ultra-loud sirens that alert bystanders and scare off perpetrators in the event of an attack. —Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 9 Feb. 2025

Video recorded by bystanders appears to show the harrowing moment when the two aircraft crashed into one another, causing a fiery explosion over the nation's capital. —Eric Lagatta, USA TODAY, 30 Jan. 2025

There are carbon fiber wheel arc extensions to protect bystanders from flying debris, a drone kit installed in the trunk, and a roof rack for emergency supplies. —New Atlas, 30 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1584, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

bystander

noun

by·​stand·​er -ˌstan-dər 

: a person standing near but taking no part in what is happening