What does nosy mean?
Nosy is an informal adjective for someone who shows excessive curiosity about other people's private affairs, conversations, or activities. It commonly implies prying or meddling rather than a neutral interest in other people, so it often carries a mildly critical or disapproving tone. A nosy person might ask unusually personal questions, read messages that are not intended for them, or take an intrusive interest in someone else's plans. The word is widely used in both British and American English and can be affectionate or teasing when the relationship is close and the context is lighthearted. It is distinct from “noisy,” which concerns sound rather than curiosity. The related noun “nosiness” names the behaviour itself, while “nosily” describes the manner in which someone acts nosily. Although “nosy” may be considered impolite, it is generally less severe than labels such as “meddlesome” or “intrusive.”
adjectiveInformal and often mildly disapproving, describing someone who is excessively curious about other people's private affairs or activities.
- Excessively curious about other people's private affairs or activities; prying.
"Her nosy questions made everyone uncomfortable at the family dinner."
"The nosy caller wanted to know why she had not returned their call."
"Legal advisers may ask nosy questions, but the client remains entitled to confidentiality."
Nosy literally grew from the idea of having a big nose for other people's business, but its modern sting is entirely figurative.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nosy come from?
Nosy developed in English from “nose” plus the suffix “-y,” using the idea of a literal or figurative “big nose” for other people's business. Its modern meaning follows the figurative sense of someone who probes into matters that are none of their concern. “Nose,” “nostril,” and “nozzle” ultimately relate to an ancient root associated with the nose and with the Proto-Indo-European nasal consonant.
Related word forms
How nosy is actually used
Usually informal and disapproving, though it can be playful in familiar contexts. The spelling “nosey” is also encountered, especially in British usage, but “nosy” is the standard modern form. It is typically used of people or their behaviour rather than of a situation.
Easily confused with nosy
Nosy means excessively curious about other people's affairs, whereas noisy means making a great deal of sound.