stand by /ˌsteə̯ndˈbaɪ̯/ verb4 •To do nothing. To be inactive in a situation.I can't simply stand by and watch you ruin your life. •To remain loyal or faithful to.Even though money is scarce sometimes, Ann stands by her decision to be a full-time mother. •To support; to continue to support despite things being bad.They stood by us all along and it's awesome to see them out here to support us today. •To wait in expectation of some event; to be ready.Please stand by for more instructions. formsstood by · standing by · stands by