standby
|stand/by|
B1
/ˈstændˌbaɪ/
ready and available
Etymology
Etymology Information
'standby' originates from the phrase 'stand by,' where 'stand' meant 'to be in a position' and 'by' meant 'near or beside.'
Historical Evolution
'stand by' transformed into the noun 'standby' in modern English usage, indicating readiness or availability.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to be near or beside,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'being ready or available.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person or thing that is available to be used if needed, especially in an emergency.
The generator is on standby in case of a power outage.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39