The word “bystander” is commonly used in our daily lives, but do we really know what it means? A bystander refers to a person who is present at an event but is not directly involved in it. In this article, we will explore the different definitions and meanings of the word “bystander.”
Definitions
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a bystander is “one who is present but not taking part in a situation or event: a chance spectator.” The Cambridge dictionary defines a bystander as “a person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part.” In simpler terms, a bystander is someone who observes an event but is not actively involved in it.
Origin
The word “bystander” originated from the Middle English word “by-standen,” which means “to stand near.” The prefix “by” means “near,” and “standen” means “to stand.” The word has been in use since the 16th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “bystander” is consistent across different dictionaries. It refers to a person who is present at an event but is not directly involved in it.
Associations
The word “bystander” is often associated with situations where someone witnesses an event but does not intervene. For example, a bystander may witness a crime but does not report it to the authorities.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “bystander” include observer, spectator, onlooker, witness, and viewer.
Antonyms
Antonyms of “bystander” include participant, actor, and involved.
The same root words
The root word of “bystander” is “stand,” which means “to be in an upright position on one’s feet.” Other words that have the same root word include “understand,” “standpoint,” and “standstill.”
Example Sentences
- The bystander watched as the car crashed into the tree.
- The police asked the bystanders if they saw anything suspicious.
- The bystander did not intervene when the bully was harassing the victim.
In conclusion, a bystander is someone who is present at an event but is not directly involved in it. The word has been in use for centuries and is often associated with situations where someone witnesses an event but does not intervene. Understanding the meaning and usage of the word “bystander” is important in our daily lives.