interloper

An interloper is a person who becomes involved in a place or situation where they are not wanted or are considered not to belong. The term often carries a negative connotation, implying an intrusion or unauthorized presence. This can apply in various contexts, from social situations where an unwanted guest might be described as an interloper, to more formal settings like business or politics where an outside entity interfering in a dispute or market could be labeled as such.

Historically, the concept of an interloper has been significant in trade and exploration. In the 16th and 17th centuries, merchants who traded without authorization from chartered companies were often called interlopers. These individuals or groups would operate in areas granted exclusive rights to a company, leading to conflicts and legal disputes over trade monopolies. The term also appears in literature and folklore, often describing characters who disrupt established norms or social orders. The essence of being an interloper lies in crossing boundaries, whether they are physical, social, or legal, without permission or rightful claim.