Standing means your position, rank, or reputation within a group or community. A student with good standing at school has a solid reputation and follows the rules. A member in good standing of a club pays their dues and participates regularly. When someone has high standing in their profession, colleagues respect their expertise and accomplishments.

Standing can also mean your legal right to be involved in something. In court, a person must have standing to file a lawsuit, meaning they were directly affected by the problem they're complaining about. You can't sue about something that didn't impact you personally.

The word also describes something that remains in place or continues over time. A standing invitation means you're always welcome, without needing to be invited again each time. A standing ovation happens when an audience rises to their feet to applaud, showing exceptional appreciation. Standing water is water that sits still rather than flowing, like puddles after rain.

In sports, the standings show each team's ranking based on wins and losses. Teams at the top of the standings are performing best, while those at the bottom need to improve their record.