to become involved in something that is not your concern or business, to interfere in someone else's affairs or business

meddle with, meddle in, not to meddle a man's meat

Formal and Informal Expressions of meddle

In different contexts, you can replace 'meddle' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'interfere, intrude' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'stick one's nose in, butt in' is a commonplace synonym.

meddle: Explore its Definition & Usage

meddle Definition

1to become involved in something that is not your concern or business
2to interfere in someone else's affairs or business

Using meddle: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "meddle" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I wish my mother-in-law would stop meddling in our marriage.
Example
He meddled in the company's financial affairs and caused a lot of problems.
Example
Don't meddle with things you don't understand.

meddle Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for meddle

Antonyms for meddle

mind one's own business
stay out of

Phrases with meddle

meddle with
to try to change or have an influence on something that should be left alone
Example
I wouldn't meddle with that machine if I were you. It's very delicate.
meddle in
to interfere in someone else's affairs or business
Example
It's not a good idea to meddle in other people's relationships.
not to meddle a man's meat
to not interfere with someone's food or drink
Example
I know you want to help, but please don't touch the grill. Remember, not to meddle a man's meat.

Origins of meddle

from Old English 'meddlian', meaning 'to mix, mingle'

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Summary: meddle in Brief

The verb 'meddle' [med-l] means to interfere in someone else's affairs or business. It can also refer to becoming involved in something that is not your concern or business. Examples include 'I wish my mother-in-law would stop meddling in our marriage.' and 'Don't meddle with things you don't understand.' The phrase 'meddle with' means to try to change or have an influence on something that should be left alone.