adj
nosy
NOH-zee
adj
1
Overly curious about other people's private affairs; prying.
"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
Word Forms
nosier comparative, more nosy comparative, nosied past tense, nosies plural, nosies singular, nosiest superlative, most nosy superlative
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “nosy”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
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.