Phrase guide

put by

verb · 4 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To store, or place in reserve; to save (money, etc.) for later use.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • Our family has been putting food by for generations.
  • I have put by a few hundred pounds for a rainy day.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To remove (something) from the present context and into its proper place; (figurative) to reject or disregard.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: transitive

Examples

  • When the lesson was finished, she put by her books and papers.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

verb

Meaning 3

To perform an action without attracting the attention of.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: ditransitive

Examples

  • I managed to put that transaction by accounts payable.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

4

verb

Meaning 4

Of a ship: to be run aground intentionally to avoid a collision

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: intransitive

Examples

  • The Bow Spring put by to avoid colliding with the Manzanillo II.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From put + by.