Busybody

A busybody is a person who is excessively interested in the affairs of others and often interferes with their privacy or business. They are typically nosy, meddlesome, and eager to offer unsolicited advice or opinions. Their curiosity often drives them to gather gossip and information about other people's lives, sometimes to the point of causing irritation or annoyance. This behavior can stem from boredom, a desire for social control, or simply a lack of self-awareness, resulting in a tendency to overstep boundaries.

Busybody meaning with examples

• Mrs. Gable was notorious for being a busybody. She constantly peeked through her curtains, monitoring the comings and goings of her neighbors. She always knew everyone's business, sharing gossip that often proved inaccurate and caused distress. Her neighbors avoided her whenever possible, tired of the constant intrusion and questioning.
• During the neighborhood watch meeting, the new president, always a busybody, immediately started grilling people about their home security systems. She began peppering residents with questions about their door locks and alarm systems. The residents sighed as they had to defend their privacy.
• At work, the busybody in accounting constantly quizzed colleagues about their salaries and how they spent their lunch breaks. It made office conversations uncomfortable and unproductive, as employees carefully dodged direct answers to her barrage of questions.
• The online forum was plagued by a busybody who seemed to monitor every post and conversation. She frequently criticized users' opinions, making sure she interjected her own ideas. Her actions made the forum a less enjoyable place.
• Aunt Mildred, the family busybody, always interjected her opinions during important family decisions, even when her input was not asked for. Her suggestions ranged from financial matters to romantic relationships. Relatives learned to keep their distance.