Meaning & Definition of word "Prying"
Prying
/praɪɪŋ/
verb:
- 1. To use force to open or remove something.
- Example: He was prying the lid off the old box.
- 2. To inquire too closely into someone else's private affairs.
- Example: She didn't appreciate him prying into her personal life.
adjective:
- 1. Invasive or meddlesome; overly interested in the affairs of others.
- Example: 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
curious:
Eager to know or learn something.
snoop:
To pry into the affairs of others.
Slang Meanings of prying
Meaning: nosy
● Example Sentence: Stop being so nosy and mind your own business.
Meaning: busybody
● Example Sentence: He's such a busybody; always in everyone else's affairs.