What does meddler mean?
A meddler is someone who intrudes on other people’s affairs, often because they are curious, anxious, or eager to exert control. The word is commonly used for a busybody who offers unwanted advice, asks intrusive questions, or interferes with relationships, work, or private decisions. It generally carries a negative or humorous tone rather than suggesting a legitimate role in the situation. A meddler may be described as nosy or persistent, while a more formal discussion might identify the person as an interferer or intruder. Although the term can refer to anyone who involves themselves inappropriately, it is especially common in descriptions of workplace behavior, family conflicts, and political or social maneuvering. The word is useful when describing conduct that is not merely unsolicited but persistently intrusive and outside the person’s proper remit.
nounA meddler is a person who interferes in other people’s affairs or activities, typically in an unwanted or nosy way.
- A person who interferes in matters that are not their concern.
"Our neighbor is a persistent meddler who has opinions about everything happening on the street."
"She tried to avoid the office meddler, whose questions were always unwelcome."
"The report warned that a political meddler could undermine the negotiations."
The regular plural is used when referring to more than one person who interferes in others’ affairs.
"Office meddlers often undermine trust among colleagues."
A meddler is a person who cannot resist turning curiosity into involvement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does meddler come from?
The noun meddler was formed by adding the agent suffix -er to meddle. The word meddle developed through Middle English from earlier forms associated with mixing or mingling, before acquiring its modern sense of interfering in other people’s concerns. Related words such as mingle and meld belong to the same broad word family associated with the idea of mixing.
Related word forms
How meddler is actually used
Usually negative and often mildly humorous, though the term can be strongly disapproving when someone interferes with important or private matters. It is appropriate in both formal and informal English.