standby

• stand-by

From the verb phrase stand by.

• (noun): IPA^(key): /ˈstændˌbaɪ/
• (verb): IPA^(key): /ˈstænd ˈbaɪ/

standby (countable and uncountable, plural standbys)

1. A state of readiness without immediate involvement; remaining in preparation for (a sudden or unforeseen event or situation).

   The troops were on standby in case of an attack.

2. (electronics) sleep mode
3. (travel) Waiting at the airport in the hope of getting a seat on a flight that is already booked out.
4. Something that is standard, well-tested, or frequently used.

   That recipe is an old standby, and she keeps the ingredients around in case of unexpected guests.

• at the ready

standby (third-person singular simple present standbys, present participle standbying, simple past and past participle standbyed)

1. (proscribed neologism, operations) To wait briefly, as for additional communication by radio or telephone; alternative spelling of stand by

   Standby while I check that for you.

• For quotations of use of this term, see Citations:standby.