Nosey Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
👃
nosey
[ˈnəʊ.zi ]
Definition
curiosity, behavior
The term 'nosey' describes a person who is overly inquisitive or prying into the affairs of others. It often carries a negative connotation, implying that the individual is intrusive and lacks respect for privacy. Such individuals may ask too many personal questions or show undue interest in the private matters of others. The noun form is 'noseiness', which refers to the quality of being nosey. Being nosey can lead to social awkwardness and may strain relationships with those who feel their privacy is being violated.
Synonyms
curious, inquisitive, interfering, prying, snoopy.
Examples of usage
- She was nosey about her neighbor's business.
- His nosey nature often irritates his friends.
- Don't be nosey; respect their privacy.
- I find it nosey when people ask personal questions.
- Her nosey habits made her unpopular in the office.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural References
- In many cultures, being 'nosey' is often looked down upon and is associated with gossip and a lack of respect for privacy.
- Television shows often portray 'nosey' characters as comic relief, adding humor through their intrusive nature, such as in 'Friends' with the character Janice.
- Media often highlights the tension between curiosity and privacy, especially in reality shows where audience members can be both attracted to and repelled by overly curious characters.
Psychology
- Curiosity drives human behavior, and being 'nosey' can stem from a natural desire to seek out information, which psychologists argue is linked to social bonding.
- Yet, being overly 'nosey' can lead to social consequences, as it may disregard the boundaries and personal space of others, resulting in strained relationships.
- The need to know about others may stem from insecurity, as someone who is 'nosey' might struggle with self-acceptance or fear of missing out on social interactions.
Literature
- Literature often explores 'nosey' characters, such as in classic detective novels where the main character's curiosity drives the plot forward.
- In children's literature, characters described as 'nosey' can be used to teach moral lessons about respecting privacy and understanding boundaries.
- Many authors use 'nosey' traits to build conflict within stories, presenting challenges that must be overcome by characters who learn to respect others' secrets.
Everyday Language
- 'Nosey' is commonly used in everyday conversation, often with a playful or teasing tone when referring to someone who is overly inquisitive.
- Synonyms for 'nosey' include 'inquisitive' or 'prying,' but these carry slightly different connotations that may imply a more serious nature.
- The phrase 'curiosity killed the cat' is often associated with being 'nosey,' highlighting the potential negative outcomes of excessive curiosity.
Origin of 'nosey'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'nosey' dates back to the early 20th century, derived from the word 'nose' combined with the suffix '-y', which suggests being like or full of.
- The term originally appeared as 'nosey parker,' which referred to someone who intrudes into others' affairs, with roots in the 19th-century nursery rhyme.
- Language evolution shows that the shift from 'nose' to 'nosey' involved broadening its meaning from just the physical sense to a metaphorical sense of curiosity about others.
The word 'nosey' traces its origins back to the early 19th century, believed to be a variant of the word 'nose', hinting at the act of sticking one's nose into someone's business. The '-y' suffix typically denotes a characteristic or quality, implying that someone who is nosey exhibits the traits associated with being overly curious. This term likely evolved as a colloquial expression, capturing the essence of prying into the affairs of others, much like a nose that intrudes into a space. Its usage has grown and evolved in various English-speaking regions, often embodying both humor and mild rebuke towards those who cannot resist the urge to snoop.