A busybody is someone who meddles in other people's business, constantly asking questions, offering unwanted advice, or spreading gossip about matters that don't concern them. If your neighbor peers through the curtains watching everyone who comes and goes, then asks nosy questions about where you've been, they're being a busybody.

The key to understanding this word is recognizing that busybodies cross boundaries. They want to know things they have no reason to know, and they often share what they learn with others. A busybody might listen in on private conversations, read notes on someone's desk when they shouldn't, or constantly ask “Why are you doing it that way?” when nobody asked for their input.

In your classroom, a busybody might be the kid who's always watching what grade everyone else got, asking everyone about their personal problems, or telling the teacher things that aren't their concern. The word carries a critical tone because most people find this behavior annoying and intrusive.

Being genuinely helpful or showing normal interest in friends is different from being a busybody. The difference? A busybody inserts themselves where they're not wanted and where they don't belong, often making situations worse rather than better.