Meaning & Definition of word "By"

By

/baɪ/

1. indicating the means of achieving something or the agent performing the action.
- Example: The letter was delivered by the postman.
2. indicating the agent or instrument used in a passive construction.
- Example: The song was written by a famous artist.
3. indicating proximity or a location.
- Example: She sat by the window and watched the rain.
4. indicating the time at which something happens.
- Example: Please submit your report by Friday.
5. indicating a method of transportation or communication.
- Example: We traveled by train to visit the city.

Old English 'bi', from Proto-Germanic *bi

by the way:

used to introduce a new topic or add information

by and large:

generally, on the whole

by no means:

not at all, in no way

stand by:

to be ready to assist or support

come by:

to visit or stop briefly

beside:

next to or at the side of

near:

at a short distance

immediately following in order or time

Meaning: By the looks of it

Example Sentence: By the looks of it, he's not coming to the party.

Meaning: By hook or by crook

Example Sentence: I'll get the job done by hook or by crook.