Officious

uh-FISH-uhs

Definition

  1. (adjective) Excessively eager to offer help or advice, often where it is not wanted; meddlesome.

Example

The officious receptionist constantly interrupted conversations to provide unsolicited opinions.

Fun Fact

“Officious” comes from the Latin officiosus, meaning “obliging” or “dutiful.” While its original sense was positive, the word’s modern meaning shifted toward unwanted or intrusive behavior. Its evolution mirrors how well-meaning actions can sometimes cross into annoyance.