Meddling

/ˈmɛd.lɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of interfering in others' affairs; intrusive involvement.
Her constant meddling in the team's decisions frustrated the coach.
Unwanted or unwelcome interference.
His meddling often led to more problems than solutions.
verb
Interfering in someone else's affairs in a way that is unwanted or meddlesome.
She was accused of meddling in her friend's personal relationships.
To involve oneself in a matter without invitation or necessity.
He couldn't resist meddling in the negotiations even though he had no role in them.

Etymology

Middle English 'meddlen', from Old French 'medler', from Latin 'misculare' (to mix)

Common Phrases and Expressions

meddling in someone's business
Interfering in another person's affairs.
meddler
A person who meddles, or interferes in others' matters.
meddling kid
A playful term referring to someone who pokes their nose into things.

Related Words

interfere
To involve oneself in a situation without invitation.
intrude
To put oneself into a situation where one is unwelcome.

Slang Meanings

Nosy
Stop being so nosy and mind your own business.
Busybody
She's such a busybody, always sticking her nose where it doesn't belong.