IPA: /ˈstænd.aʊt/
KK: /ˈstændˌaʊt/
A person or thing that is noticeably better or more impressive than others in a group.
She was a standout performer in the school play, receiving praise from everyone.
Standout is formed from "stand" (from Old English "standan", meaning to remain in a place) and "out" (meaning external or away from). The word describes something or someone that stands out from the rest, being noticeable or prominent.
Think of something that 'remains' ('stand') 'away' ('out') from the rest, making it noticeable.