- standby
- stand|by1 [ `stænd,baı ] noun countsomeone or something that is always available to be used if it is needed in a particular situation:a standby diesel generatorWe've kept the old stroller as a standby in case the new one breaks.on standby1. ) ready to get on an airplane if there is a seat left when it is about to take off:passengers on standbyput someone on standby: The flight is sold out, but we can put you on standby.2. ) available to be used if it is needed in a particular situation:The troops are on standby and can return at a moment's notice.put/place someone/something on standby: Daly has been put on standby for the Ryder Cup.3. ) used about a piece of electrical equipment, for example a television, that is switched on but not in usestandbystand|by 2 [ `stænd,baı ] adjectivea standby airplane ticket is an inexpensive one that you buy just before the flight is ready to leave if there are still seats availablefly standby INFORMALto get on an airplane with a standby ticket
Usage of the words and phrases in modern English. 2013.