bystand

Short for bystander, but not as bad.

They stand by, but not by choice, it's cuz they would get pummeled if they tried to help.
They want to help but they can't.
They look out for themselves before others, though...

A: Baldrick, you're such a bystander!
B: No, He's actually only a bystand. You should see him in a fight.

by zHmonsta December 15, 2021

Flag

Get the bystand mug.

innocent bystanders

1. Someone who was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
2. Members (currently 12) of a popular group blog of the same name.

1. The evil-doers drove a car through a crowd of <i>innocent bystanders</i>.

2. Innocent Bystanders welcomes all races, creeds and orientations to comment.

by Retired Geezer June 1, 2006

Flag

Get the innocent bystanders mug.

bystander

A person who is standing near and sees something that happens, without being involved in it.

Several innocent bystanders were hurt when the two gangs attacked each other.

by ElektroNick May 2, 2006

Flag

Get the bystander mug.

bystander effect

When witnessing a situation of an victim and 'incriminator', the degree of responsibility the witness has in helping the victim or stopping the 'crime' in progress. The degree of responsibility usually depends on three criteria; 1. Whether the victim is deserving of help, 2. The competence of the bystander, 3. The relationship between the bystander and the 'victim'. The bystander can intervene in usually two different ways; direct intervention, or, calling authorities.

I saw an old lady getting her purse taken by some thug, i just stood by and watched... later i felt confused and guilty. The feeling i felt could be described as the bystander effect

by stevo142 July 20, 2013

Flag