Definition

A person who is overly interested in other people's business and often tries to interfere or give unwanted advice.

Example

She is such a busybody, always asking about my personal life.

Conversation

Did you hear what happened at the meeting yesterday?

No, what happened?

Apparently, there was a real busybody who kept interrupting everyone.

That's so annoying! Some people just can't mind their own business.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Busybody → The word is formed from "busy" (from Old English "bisig", meaning active or occupied) and "body" (from Old English "bodig", meaning the physical form of a person). A busybody refers to a person who is overly active or occupied in the affairs of others, often intrusively.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'active' ('busy') in other people's 'lives' ('body') — that's why a busybody is someone who meddles in others' affairs.

Visually Confused Words