Standby — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun adjective adverb /ˈstan(d)-ˌbī/ stand·by

Meaning & Definition of Standby

Standby (noun)

  1. one to be relied on especially in emergencies
  2. a favorite or reliable choice or resource
  3. one that is held in reserve ready for use, substitute

Standby (adjective)

  1. held near at hand and ready for use
  2. relating to the act or condition of standing by
  3. of, relating to, or traveling by an airline service in which the passenger must wait for an available unreserved seat

Standby (adverb)

  1. on a standby basis

Standby (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. something or someone to which one looks for support

    "our old standby in times of trouble"

    similar: anchor, buttress, dependence, mainstay, pillar, reliance
    related: backbone, sinew(s), spine, right hand, bolsterer, crutch, handmaiden, prop, stay, anchorage, harbor, refuge

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Standby

The most common words with a similar meaning to Standby:

anchor, buttress, dependence, mainstay, pillar, reliance

Related Words for Standby

backbone, sinew(s), spine, right hand, bolsterer, crutch, handmaiden, prop, stay, anchorage, harbor, refuge

Word Forms of Standby

Inflections: standbys

Origin & Etymology of Standby

First known use: 1712

Words & Phrases Containing Standby

on standby

Frequently Asked Questions about Standby

What does "Standby" mean?

"Standby" means one to be relied on especially in emergencies. As an a noun, an adjective and an adverb, it is defined as: one to be relied on especially in emergencies.

What is another word for "Standby"?

Other words for "Standby" include anchor, buttress, dependence, mainstay, pillar and reliance. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Standby" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Standby"?

There are 18 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Standby". Common alternatives include anchor, buttress, dependence, mainstay, pillar and reliance.

How do you use "Standby" in a sentence?

Examples of "Standby" in a sentence: "our old standby in times of trouble".

Is "Standby" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Standby" can be used as a noun, an adjective and an adverb, depending on the context.

How do you pronounce "Standby"?

"Standby" is pronounced /ˈstan(d)-ˌbī/ and divided into syllables as stand·by.

What is the origin of the word "Standby"?

First known use: 1712.

What is another word for "Standby" meaning "something or someone to which one looks for support"?

When "Standby" (noun) means something or someone to which one looks for support, synonyms include anchor, buttress, dependence, mainstay, pillar and reliance.