Prying

/praɪɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To use force to open or remove something.
He was prying the lid off the old box.
To inquire too closely into someone else's private affairs.
She didn't appreciate him prying into her personal life.
adjective
Invasive or meddlesome; overly interested in the affairs of others.
His prying questions made her feel uncomfortable.

Etymology

From the verb 'pry', meaning to inquire too closely into someone's private affairs.

Common Phrases and Expressions

prying into others' business:
To interfere in someone else's personal matters.
prying eyes:
Curious or intrusive people who are trying to observe what should remain private.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

nosy
Stop being so nosy and mind your own business.
busybody
He's such a busybody; always in everyone else's affairs.