meddles

Meddles is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb meddle, meaning to involve oneself in others' affairs without invitation or necessity. In contemporary English, to meddle is generally associated with unwanted interference and intrusiveness; for example, "He meddles in his neighbors' business" illustrates the common negative sense.

The term is often used with a pejorative tone, though it can appear in lighthearted or affectionate contexts when describing well-meaning but intrusive actions. Meddles is a normal grammatical form used with he, she, it in the present tense.

Etymology and related forms: The verb meddle has uncertain origins but appears in Middle English. Related forms include meddler (one who meddles), meddling (the present participle), and meddlesome (having a propensity to meddle). These related terms help convey different aspects of the same behavior, from the act itself to the personality trait.

Usage notes: Meddling raises questions about privacy, boundaries, and autonomy. In social contexts, it is often discouraged or criticized. In professional or legal settings, meddling can breach duties, violate privacy protections, or contradict organizational policies, potentially leading to reputational harm or formal consequences.

See also: interference, intrusion, nosiness, prying. These related concepts address similar ideas of unwelcome involvement in matters that other people intend to keep private or separate from outside intervention.