Nosey

Nosey or nosy is a slang expression, with two distinct meanings.

For one, it may refer to an especially Kawaii nose, with adorable features, however, it is especially prevalent as an expression, highlighting the annoyingly curious nature of someone.

The expression in its former meaning, referring to a distinctive nose of someone has been adopted into English from the French word nasé in the 1610’s.

It appeared in print on several occasions in that century and “Nosey” would further establish in the lingo during the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

“Nosey” started to gain its additional meaning of someone being excessively inquisitive in the 1880’s.

A speaking name was also coined in the late 19^th century, in the form of Nosey Parker, used as a nickname for someone who is way too curious.

The expression spread rapidly with its newer meaning, becoming understood all over the Anglosphere during the 20^th century, with its original meaning, without referring to inquisitiveness turning into a veritable rarity.

“Nosey” is still used in contemporary contexts, as well as the internet, where it was first defined on Urban Dictionary in 2003, with several other entries to follow in the subsequent years.

• Merriam-webster.com – nosy
• Dictionary.com – nosey
• Yourdictionary.com – Nosey definition