Busybody Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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busybody
[ˈbɪziˌbɒdi ]
Definitions
inquisitive person
A busybody is someone who meddles in the affairs of others, often without being asked or invited. They are usually nosy and intrusive, always poking their nose where it doesn't belong.
Synonyms
intruder, meddler, nosy parker.
Examples of usage
- He's such a busybody, always gossiping about other people's business.
- The neighbors are a bunch of busybodies, constantly spying on everyone.
nosy person
A busybody is someone who is overly curious about other people's lives and activities, always prying and snooping around to satisfy their insatiable curiosity.
Synonyms
curious person, eavesdropper, snoop.
Examples of usage
- Don't be a busybody and stop eavesdropping on our conversation.
- She's a busybody who can't resist peeking through the windows to see what's going on.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Various cultures often create negative stereotypes around busybodies, equating them to being nosy or gossip-driven.
- In literature and media, busybody characters often serve as antagonists or comic relief, highlighting the tension between privacy and curiosity.
Psychology
- People who exhibit busybody behavior may struggle with their own insecurities, leading them to focus on others instead of themselves.
- Engagement in others' affairs can provide a sense of control or distraction from their own life challenges.
Literature
- Shakespeare often included busybody characters in his plays, using them to move plots forward and create conflict, like Polonius in 'Hamlet.'
- In modern literature, busybodies are frequently depicted in small-town narratives, amplifying themes of community and privacy.
Pop Culture
- Movies and TV shows such as 'The Office' often feature busybody characters who meddle in colleagues' lives, driving humorous plotlines.
- The playful portrayal of busybodies in sitcoms highlights the fine line between concern and intrusion in relationships.
Origin of 'busybody'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'busybody' originated in the 17th century, combining 'busy' and the word 'body,' suggesting a person who is busy with others' affairs.
- It was first recorded in writing in the 1660s, showing how long this type of character has existed in society.
The term 'busybody' originated in the late 16th century, combining 'busy' and 'body' to describe someone who is excessively busy or meddlesome. Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to someone who is overly inquisitive or nosy about other people's affairs.