Interloper

An interloper is a person who becomes involved in a place or situation where they are not wanted or do not belong. This intrusion is often seen as unwelcome, meddlesome, or presumptuous, disrupting the established order or privacy of those already present. Interlopers can disrupt social dynamics, challenge established norms, or simply create an uncomfortable atmosphere due to their perceived outsider status. The term frequently implies a crossing of boundaries, either physical, social, or professional, often to exploit or gain advantage.

Interloper meaning with examples

• The new neighbor, whose flamboyant garden clashed with the neighborhood's minimalist aesthetic, was considered an interloper by some residents. His loud parties, the late-night lights, and the excessive decorations were seen as disruptive to the established peace of the street. Some neighbors actively tried to ignore him and considered his actions as unwarranted incursions into their formerly quiet environment.
• During the board meeting, an unexpected guest attempted to inject their unsolicited opinions, quickly labeled an interloper by the frustrated executives. Their amateur suggestions and abrasive demeanor were met with dismissive eye-rolls. Their intervention was a blatant disregard for the established protocols, and the chairman tried to have the interloper removed as quickly as possible.
• In the competitive world of high fashion, unknown designers are sometimes seen as interlopers, trying to break into the exclusive cliques. Their novel ideas and different designs are scrutinized, and their attempts to find financial backing are viewed with mistrust and suspicion. They must work harder to establish their credentials and prove their worth compared to established designers.
• When the company decided to allow remote workers, traditional employees viewed the remote workers as interlopers, changing their corporate environment. They disliked the changes in office dynamics and new communication styles. Some of the older employees distrusted the remote workers' intentions, fearing they might be more easily manipulated by management and potentially threaten job security.
• The journalist who repeatedly showed up at the reclusive artist’s studio was labeled an interloper. The journalist had been warned to stop, but the artist considered their persistent presence a violation of privacy, and the artist's team attempted to have him physically removed. The journalist's persistence in seeking an interview was seen as disrespectful.