Quick answer
Meddlesome means prone to interfering in the concerns of others. It is usually pronounced MED-uhl-sum, and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Meddlesome
Meddlesome describes someone or something that is prone to interfering in the concerns of others. It belongs to dramatic and overblown words and works best in heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish. It still feels usable today, especially when you want a word with more character than the plainest alternative.
At a glance
dramaticoverblowntheatrical
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
If something is meddlesome, it is prone to interfering in the concerns of others. The word usually adds a stronger tone than a simpler adjective, which is why it suits heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish so well.
Why this word feels absurd
Meddlesome feels absurd because its repeated sounds give it a bounce or wobble that makes the word feel half descriptive and half sound effect.
Origin and history
Meddlesome is generally traced to formed from meddle plus the adjective suffix -some. In modern use, the history matters less than the strong tone the word still carries.
Is this word still used today?
Meddlesome is still usable today, especially when you want language that feels more distinctive than the plainest modern alternative.
Example sentences
- The committee accused the board of meddlesome oversight.
- Her meddlesome aunt reorganized the kitchen without asking.
- The novel gives us a meddlesome neighbor who always appears at the wrong moment.
- What began as helpful advice soon felt meddlesome.
When should you use this word?
Use meddlesome when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish.
Similar words
interfering, nosy, intrusive, officious, busybodyish
Opposite or contrasting words
respectful, discreet, hands-off
Common questions
- What does meddlesome mean? Prone to interfering in the concerns of others.
- How do you pronounce meddlesome? It is commonly pronounced MED-uhl-sum.
- Is meddlesome still used today? Meddlesome is still usable today, especially when you want language that feels more distinctive than the plainest modern alternative.
- When should you use meddlesome? Use meddlesome when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in heightened narration, theatrical criticism, and writing that enjoys a bit of flourish.
- What words are similar to meddlesome? Similar words include interfering, nosy, intrusive, and officious.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.