Passersby Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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passersby

[ˈpɑːsərˌbaɪ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

on the street

People who are walking past a particular place, especially in a city or town.

Synonyms

bystanders, onlookers, pedestrians.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
passersby	Used to describe people who are walking past a particular place or event. Often neutral and can be used generally. The accident drew the attention of many passersby. Passersby stopped to watch the street performance.
bystanders	Refers to people who are present at an event but do not take part in it. This term can sometimes imply innocence or inaction. Bystanders watched as the firefighters put out the blaze. The robbery happened in plain sight of several bystanders.
pedestrians	Used to describe people who are walking, particularly in areas where vehicles are also present. It focuses more on the aspect of movement. The new crosswalk was installed for the safety of pedestrians. Pedestrians hurried across the street as the lights changed.
onlookers	Describes people who are watching an event, often with curiosity or interest. Can sometimes imply a sense of idleness or inaction. The magic show attracted a crowd of amused onlookers. Onlookers gathered around the scene of the accident.

Examples of usage

Passersby stopped to admire the street performer.
The café is always busy with passersby looking for a quick snack.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In literature and film, passersby often symbolize the fleeting nature of life, representing moments and interactions that are temporary.
Street art often targets passersby, turning an ordinary walk into an encounter with visual storytelling.
Songs sometimes reference passersby, emphasizing themes of missed connections or the busyness of life.

Society

Passersby are integral to urban design, influencing how public spaces are created to encourage interaction and movement.
In marketing, businesses often design advertisements specifically targeting passersby to attract impulse visits.
Public performances and street performances often rely on passersby for an audience, showcasing local culture.

Psychology

Human interactions with passersby can evoke feelings of loneliness or connection, depending on the context and circumstances.
Studies show that brief interactions with strangers can impact mood positively, highlighting the importance of every passerby.
The idea of 'passing by' can also bring about existential reflections on presence and absence in social settings.

Art

In visual art, the concept of passersby is often explored to critique societal norms or to highlight everyday experiences.
Performance art frequently incorporates passersby, blurring the line between spectator and participant in surprising ways.
Urban photography captures moments of passersby, allowing viewers to reflect on the narratives of everyday life.

Origin of 'passersby'

Main points about word origin

The word 'passersby' originates from two parts: 'passer,' meaning someone who is passing, and 'by,' indicating they are going past something.
It was first recorded in English around the early 18th century, showing how language evolves with changing social dynamics.
In various European languages, similar constructions exist that capture the essence of people moving through spaces.

The term 'passersby' originated in the early 19th century, combining the word 'passer,' meaning 'one who passes,' with 'by,' indicating proximity or location. The concept of individuals passing by a certain place has been a common occurrence in urban settings, leading to the popularization of the term in everyday language.