What does obtrude mean?
To obtrude is to impose oneself, one's presence, or one's opinions on other people, generally in a way that is unwelcome or impossible to overlook. The verb commonly describes someone who intrudes into a conversation, a performance, or another person's affairs, especially with conspicuous persistence. It can also be used more neutrally when an idea, object, or feeling is forced upon someone's attention, as in a statement that obtrudes itself into a discussion. Although related to intrude, obtrude often carries a stronger implication of pushing something forward or pressing it upon others. The word is formal in tone and is especially useful when describing behavior that is socially awkward, presumptuous, or deliberately difficult to ignore. Its Latin roots combine a prefix meaning 'against' or 'toward' with a word meaning 'push', reflecting the physical force suggested by its figurative meanings.
verbTo intrude oneself or one's opinions upon others, especially in a way that is unwelcome or difficult to ignore. It can also mean to force an idea, object, or attention upon someone.
- To intrude oneself or one's presence upon others, especially in an unwelcome or persistent way.
- To force an idea, opinion, or other matter upon someone's attention.
"He was careful not to obtrude his opinions during the discussion."
"The confident stranger obtruded himself into the conversation."
"She did not wish to obtrude her grief on those around her."
Obtrude literally means 'push against': its Latin roots make the word's unwanted forcefulness feel almost physical.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does obtrude come from?
Obtrude comes from Latin obtrudere, formed from ob-, meaning 'against' or 'toward', and trudere, meaning 'push'. The Latin verb could refer to thrusting something forward or forcing it upon someone. English borrowed the word in the early 17th century, and its modern senses continue the idea of pushing oneself, one's views, or another matter forcefully into view.
Related word forms
How obtrude is actually used
The word is formal and often implies that the action is unwelcome, intrusive, or excessively forceful. It is commonly used with 'oneself', 'presence', 'views', or 'opinions', but can also take a less direct object.
Easily confused with obtrude
To intrude is to enter or make one's presence felt without invitation, whereas to obtrude emphasizes pushing oneself, one's views, or something else upon others in a forceful or unwelcome way.