Passerby

A **passerby** is an individual who happens to be walking or traveling past a particular point or location. They are typically not involved in the activity taking place at that location and are simply observing or briefly interacting with the environment. The term emphasizes the temporary nature of their presence and often implies a fleeting, incidental observation of events. The focus is on their transient role, and their possible reaction or lack thereof to the situation. A **passerby** may or may not be noticed by those already involved in the scenario, dependent on their interactions and visibility. The interaction can be as simple as a visual acknowledgment or involve basic communication.

Passerby meaning with examples

• As the parade marched down the street, a passerby stopped to take a picture, capturing the vibrant costumes and joyful expressions of the participants. They weren't part of the parade but were captivated by the lively scene. The photograph serves as evidence of their incidental engagement and memory of the passing entertainment.
• A group of children were playing in the park and a passerby, noticing their joyous laughter, smiled, and reminisced on their own childhood fun. The stranger observed this scene without engaging the children, and the joy brought about by the scene brought on a flash of nostalgia. The encounter was momentary, their role was fleeting.
• During the street performance, a passerby put some money in the artist's hat after enjoying the music for a few minutes. The individual paused, listened, and expressed appreciation. This simple act of patronage underscored their appreciation of the performers and their choice to pause in order to enjoy them.
• The injured hiker, stranded on the remote trail, hoped a passerby would soon come to their aid. Every rustle of leaves held a chance for help. The hiker relied on chance encounters, as the scenario demanded, and to the random generosity and kindness of a passerby.