Standby (noun) Definition, Meaning & Examples

noun, plural stand·bys.
  1. a staunch supporter or adherent; one who can be relied upon.
  2. something upon which one can rely and therefore choose or use regularly.
  3. something or someone held ready to serve as a substitute, especially a radio or television program used as a filler in case of cancellation of a regularly scheduled program.
  4. a traveler who is waiting for last-minute accommodations to become available on a plane, train, or other transport as a result of a cancellation.
adjective
  1. kept readily available for use in an emergency, shortage, or the like: a standby player.
  2. of or relating to last-minute accommodations, the transport that offers them, or a traveler who is waiting for them: a standby flight.
  3. of or relating to a waiting period.
Idioms
  1. in a state of readiness to act, respond, or be used immediately when needed.
verb
  1. to be available and ready to act if needed or called upon
  2. to be present as an onlooker or without taking any action
  3. to be faithful to
  4. (of the Crown) to challenge (a juror) without needing to show cause
noun stand-by
    • a person or thing that is ready for use or can be relied on in an emergency
    • (as modifier)
  1. in a state of readiness for action or use
adjective
  1. (of an airline passenger, fare, or seat) not booked in advance but awaiting or subject to availability
Standby (noun) Definition, Meaning & Examples

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