Nosiness refers to an excessive interest in the personal affairs of others, often without their permission. Synonyms for nosiness include being meddlesome, intrusive, prying, busybody, snoopy, and curious. Being meddlesome involves intrusive meddling in other people's business, especially where it is not wanted. Intrusive refers to things that invade or intrude on the privacy of others, while prying involves trying to discover someone else's private or confidential information. A busybody is a person who is always meddling in one's affairs without invitation. Snoopy implies an overcurious person who is interested in what is happening to others. Curiosity is a natural human instinct, but respect for others' privacy is equally important.