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adj

meddling

Meddling (adj) means interfering in other people's business without being asked or welcome. Example: “Her meddling aunt kept giving unsolicited advice about the wedding.”

adj
1
Interfering in other people's business without being asked or welcome.
"Her meddling aunt kept giving unsolicited advice about the wedding."
"The meddling neighbor was always trying to settle other people's arguments."
noun
1
Unwanted interference in someone else's affairs.
"He resented his boss's constant meddling in his projects."
"The prince accused the council of meddling in matters of the royal family."

How to use meddling

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPoking your nose into things that aren't your business, usually with the implication you're making it worse.

Common mistake

Meddling always carries a negative tone; helping isn't meddling unless it's unwanted or overstepping.

Common pairings
meddling in someone's affairs meddling neighbor meddling parent stop meddling

Word forms

meddlings plural

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Her _____ aunt kept giving unsolicited advice about the wedding.

Related words

Rhymes for meddling

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Frequently asked questions

What does “meddling” mean?

The word “meddling” means interfering in other people's business without being asked or welcome. In plain terms, poking your nose into things that aren't your business, usually with the implication you're making it worse.

How do you use “meddling” in a sentence?

Here is “meddling” used in a sentence: “Her meddling aunt kept giving unsolicited advice about the wedding.”

What part of speech is “meddling”?

Depending on how it is used, “meddling” can be an adjective and a noun.

How many meanings does “meddling” have?

“Meddling” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: interfering in other people's business without being asked or welcome.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial