Meddlesome

Meddlesome describes someone or something that interferes in other people's affairs, often in an unwanted or unwelcome way. It implies an unwarranted intrusion, a prying nature, and a tendency to involve oneself where one is not needed or asked. The behavior is usually perceived as bothersome, nosy, and disruptive, often stemming from curiosity, a need for control, or a misplaced sense of helpfulness. A meddlesome individual might offer unsolicited advice, attempt to influence decisions, or spread rumors, creating discord and hindering others' autonomy. This behavior can range from minor irritations to significant breaches of privacy and boundaries, impacting relationships and personal space.

Meddlesome meaning with examples

• The meddlesome neighbor was always peering through her curtains, offering unsolicited advice about our lawn and making assumptions about our visitors. We eventually learned to ignore her, but her constant interference often disrupted our peace and privacy. Her meddling created unnecessary tension, making it difficult to maintain a friendly relationship.
• During the family vacation, Aunt Carol, in her meddlesome ways, insisted on rearranging everyone's luggage and planning every minute of the day. Her interference, though intended to be helpful, resulted in more arguments than relaxation, ruining what should have been a stress-free time.
• The editor, known for his meddlesome approach, frequently rewrote articles without consulting the authors, often changing the tone and content. This practice, despite sometimes improving clarity, undermined writers' autonomy and creative input, leading to friction and a decline in morale.
• Despite her good intentions, the volunteer's meddlesome behavior within the charity caused more harm than good, such as creating conflict among members, and altering financial records without prior authorisation. This constant interference in their internal processes and decisions frustrated the organisation's leadership.
• The political campaign suffered when a meddlesome consultant leaked damaging information to the press. This caused significant damage and ultimately undermined public trust. His misguided attempts to control the narrative led to more problems than solutions, illustrating the negative consequences of interference.