By and by Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Expectation of Delay Indicates something will occur soon but not immediately, suggesting a short wait. She said she'd join us by and by, once she finishes her work. Pro Tip 2/3Narrative Transition Used in storytelling to imply a seamless passage of time without detailing every moment. By and by, the caterpillar transformed into a butterfly. Pro Tip 3/3Calm Reassurance Often used to reassure someone that an event or action will eventually happen. Don't worry, your bike will get fixed by and by.