Quick answer
Busybody means a person who meddles in other people's business. It is usually critical, but it can also sound mildly comic or old-fashioned.
Word page
Busybody Meaning
A busybody is someone who cannot resist poking into other people's affairs. The word is useful when you want to describe nosy interference with a slightly comic, old-fashioned edge.
At a glance
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, a busybody is a person who meddles where they do not belong. They may ask intrusive questions, spread private details, or try to manage situations that are none of their business.
Tone, context, and nuance
Busybody is usually negative, but it is not as harsh as some insults. It often sounds more teasing than cruel, especially when used for someone who is nosy, over-involved, or socially intrusive rather than dangerous.
Word origin
Busybody is a compound of busy and body. Older uses could refer to someone constantly occupied, but the modern sense focuses on meddling in other people's business.
Example sentences
- Simple: The busybody asked why the neighbors were selling their house.
- Everyday: Do not be a busybody; let them solve their own argument.
- Writing: The village busybody knew every window, every whisper, and every late arrival.
- Nuance: Busybody sounds nosier and more interfering than curious.
- Awkward: "She helped after being asked, so she was a busybody." Better: "She was helpful."
Common mistakes
- Using it for ordinary helpfulness: A helpful person gives wanted help; a busybody interferes without invitation.
- Making it too formal: Busybody is better in conversation, character writing, and light criticism than in formal reports.
- Confusing it with gossip: A gossip spreads talk; a busybody interferes in other people's affairs.
- Using it for serious abuse of power: For serious interference, words like harasser, manipulator, or abuser may be more accurate.
Synonyms and similar words
Opposite words
discreet person, respectful neighbor, mind-your-own-business type, bystander, confidant
Word family
Busybody is most often used as a noun. Related phrases include busybodied behavior and being nosy, though those are not exact word-family forms.
Writing tip
Use busybody when the problem is nosiness plus interference. If the person mainly spreads rumors, gossip may be clearer; if they intentionally provoke conflict, stirrer is sharper.
Common questions
- What does busybody mean in simple words? Busybody means a nosy person who interferes in other people's private affairs.
- Is busybody an insult? Yes. It is a mild insult or criticism for someone who meddles.
- Is busybody formal or informal? Busybody is informal and slightly old-fashioned.
- What is the difference between busybody and meddler? Both involve interference, but busybody often feels nosier and more socially intrusive.
- What is another word for busybody? Similar words include meddler, snoop, gossip, stirrer, and nosy person.
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Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 14, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.