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 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 That stamped out meddlesome primaries by getting Trump on the same page and supporting those candidates, and by saving money that could be used in November instead of in costly intraparty battles. Al Weaver, The Hill, 20 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for meddlesome
Recent Examples of Synonyms for meddlesome
Adjective
  • As Lauryn was busy working at her warehouse alongside sister Jessica Shannon and her friend Paisley, June stopped by to inform them of her big plan.
    Dory Jackson, People.com, 28 June 2025
  • Despite the setback in Denver, the couple has been busy in the meantime.
    Max Scheinblum, Denver Post, 28 June 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
  • For America to retain our status as the hub of the financial world, global investors need to know that dollars invested in U.S. financial institutions will not be subject to intrusive government regulation and taxation, and that their financial privacy will be protected.
    Stephen Moore, Boston Herald, 19 June 2025
  • This precision timing enhances conversion rates and improves the customer experience, making interactions feel serendipitous rather than intrusive.
    Maria Youth, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • And the positivity surrounding it is annoying, including my own.
    Kayla Grant, People.com, 20 June 2025
  • Each cup is made from a single piece of heavy-gauge stainless steel, so there are no annoying seams for flour or sugar to get stuck in.
    Francesca Krempa, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Meddlesome.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/meddlesome. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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