adj
nosy
NOH-zee
Nosy (adj) means Overly curious about other people's private affairs; prying. Example: “The nosy neighbor always asks about our visitors.”
adj
1
Overly curious about other people's private affairs; prying.
"They built tall fences, yet the nosy neighbors always seemed to know everything about them."
"The nosy neighbor always asks about our visitors."
"Don't be so nosy — it's none of your business."
How to use nosy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishToo interested in things that aren't your business.
Common mistake
Also spelled "nosey" in British English — both are acceptable.
UK vs US
British English sometimes prefers the spelling "nosey."
Common pairings
nosy neighbor
nosy questions
get nosy
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Word forms
- Plural
- nosies
- Third person singular
- nosies
- Past tense
- nosied
- Comparative
- nosier, more nosy
- Superlative
- nosiest, most nosy
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ neighbor always asks about our visitors.
Etymology
From nose + -y, the idea of "poking your nose" into other people's business.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for nosy
See all rhymes for nosy →Frequently asked questions
What does “nosy” mean?
The word “nosy” means overly curious about other people's private affairs; prying. In plain terms, too interested in things that aren't your business.
How do you pronounce “nosy”?
“Nosy” is pronounced NOH-zee (/ˈnoʊzi/ in IPA).
How do you use “nosy” in a sentence?
Here is “nosy” used in a sentence: “The nosy neighbor always asks about our visitors.”
What is another word for “nosy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “nosy” include interfering, kibitzing and meddlesome.
What part of speech is “nosy”?
“Nosy” is an adjective.
