Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective meddlesome contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of meddlesome are impertinent, intrusive, obtrusive, and officious. While all these words mean "given to thrusting oneself into the affairs of others," meddlesome stresses an annoying and usually prying interference in others' affairs.

a meddlesome landlord

When could impertinent be used to replace meddlesome?

Although the words impertinent and meddlesome have much in common, impertinent implies exceeding the bounds of propriety in showing interest or curiosity or in offering advice.

resented their impertinent interference

Where would intrusive be a reasonable alternative to meddlesome?

The synonyms intrusive and meddlesome are sometimes interchangeable, but intrusive implies a tactless or otherwise objectionable thrusting into others' affairs.

tried to be helpful without being intrusive

In what contexts can obtrusive take the place of meddlesome?

The meanings of obtrusive and meddlesome largely overlap; however, obtrusive stresses improper or offensive conspicuousness of interfering actions.

expressed an obtrusive concern for his safety

When is officious a more appropriate choice than meddlesome?

In some situations, the words officious and meddlesome are roughly equivalent. However, officious implies the offering of services or attentions that are unwelcome or annoying.

officious friends made the job harder

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of meddlesome The crisis involves a body and a ticking clock, as well as a zany, meddlesome doorman (Method Man, always welcome) added for good measure. Natalia Winkelman, New York Times, 22 May 2025 Estimating where exactly competing clubs will rank for the coefficient element is a meddlesome task, not least because only 16 clubs have so far confirmed their place for next season. Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 16 May 2025 Most of the show is a pleasing examination of small-town living and a brother and sister who want to do quality detective work (despite differing tactics) amid poor funding and meddlesome constituents. Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 19 Feb. 2025 However, the fear of being perceived as overly critical or meddlesome can prevent them from speaking up. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for meddlesome
Recent Examples of Synonyms for meddlesome
Adjective
  • Shop Now For busy spots (like back doors and side passages), a hardwired camera can save you a lot of charging.
    Simon Hill, Wired News, 10 July 2025
  • Why Family Fitness Works: Fun, Consistency, and Motivation Getting the whole family active can feel like a challenge, especially with the busy nature of life.
    William Jones, USA Today, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • There’s something officious about Alden Ehrenreich.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 21 Jan. 2023
  • Her charming luxury treasure trove has none of that officious chilliness that defines the typical store of its ilk but instead feels like a brocanterie crammed with interesting, unexpected luxury goods from across the world.
    Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 2 Jan. 2023
Adjective
  • But the control wielded by the human is deeper, more intrusive.
    Michael W. Clune, Harpers Magazine, 16 July 2025
  • However, the data on Gen Z’s lukewarm reception shows that these features may actually feel more intrusive than helpful.
    Anisha Sircar, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
Adjective
  • Josh — Earnings season is super annoying for trend-following investment strategies.
    Josh Brown,Sean Russo, CNBC, 14 July 2025
  • After witnesses identified him as the man who made the gestures, he was arrested and booked into Santa Clara County jail on charges of contacting a minor with intent to commit a lewd act and annoying or molesting a child.
    Jason Green, Mercury News, 12 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Meddlesome.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/meddlesome. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on meddlesome

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