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Interloper Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ•ต๏ธ
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interloper

[หˆษชntษ™หŒloสŠpษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

unwanted intrusion

A person who becomes involved in a place or situation where they are not wanted or are considered not to belong.

Synonyms

intruder, meddler, trespasser.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interloper

Use 'interloper' when someone is involved in a situation where they are not wanted or do not belong.

  • The new employee was considered an interloper by the established team
  • They saw him as an interloper in their tight-knit group
intruder

Use 'intruder' when someone enters a place where they are not allowed, often implying a sense of threat or danger.

  • The security system will alert us if any intruder tries to break in
  • The dog barked loudly to scare away the intruder
trespasser

Use 'trespasser' when someone enters a property without permission. It often implies a violation of rules or laws.

  • The sign clearly states 'No Trespassing,' but there were still trespassers in the backyard
  • Anyone caught trespassing on private property will be prosecuted
meddler

Use 'meddler' when someone interferes in other peopleโ€™s affairs or business, often in an annoying or inappropriate manner.

  • I wish she would stop being such a meddler and let us handle this on our own
  • The town gossip was known as a notorious meddler in everyone else's lives

Examples of usage

  • He was regarded as an interloper in the tight-knit community.
  • The company viewed the takeover bid as the act of an interloper.
Context #2 | Noun

business

A person who becomes involved in a business or activity without being invited or wanted.

Synonyms

busybody, intruder, meddler.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
interloper

Used to describe someone who becomes involved in a place or situation where they are not wanted or do not belong.

  • He felt like an interloper at the family gathering
meddler

Used to describe someone who involves themselves in other people's affairs without being asked and often causes trouble or problems.

  • He has always been a meddler, constantly trying to solve problems that aren't his
intruder

Implied someone who enters a place without permission, often with the potential of causing harm or disruption. The term also carries a negative connotation.

  • The security alarm went off, indicating there was an intruder in the house
busybody

Refers to a person who is too interested in what other people are doing and tries to know or interfere in their private lives.

  • She is such a busybody, always asking about everyoneโ€™s personal business

Examples of usage

  • The interloper attempted to disrupt the negotiations.
  • They saw him as an interloper trying to take over their market share.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In various novels, interlopers often serve as catalysts for conflict, showcasing themes of belonging and exclusion.
  • Jane Austen's works frequently depict interlopers as characters who disrupt social order and relationships.
  • Shakespeare also illustrated interlopers in his plays, emphasizing their roles in creating tension or mischief.

Pop Culture

  • The term inspired the title of several films and books, often portraying characters who disrupt the status quo.
  • In modern media, interlopers are portrayed in various roles from villains to comic relief, reflecting societal fears of invasion or interference.
  • Television shows often feature interlopers in family dynamics or friendships, adding drama and humor.

Sociology

  • Interlopers can symbolize cultural conflicts, especially when outsiders attempt to influence or change established practices.
  • In group dynamics, interlopers often affect relationships, illustrating the boundaries of social acceptance.
  • Studies on interlopers show they challenge norms and can lead to innovation or pushback within communities.

Origin of 'interloper'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the early 17th century, combining 'inter-' (between) and 'looper,' meaning 'to leap.'
  • Originally used to describe someone who interferes in the activities of others, reflecting the notion of unwelcome involvement.
  • Related terms highlight its negative connotation, indicating intrusion or meddling.

The word 'interloper' originated in the 17th century, derived from the Dutch 'illegaal ondernemer', meaning 'illegal trader'. It was initially used to describe unauthorized traders or merchants who trespassed on the trading rights of others. Over time, the term evolved to encompass anyone who intrudes or meddles in a situation where they are not welcome.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,731 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.