pry
UK: praɪ | US: praɪ
vt. to inquire impertinently or unnecessarily into something private
vi. to look or search closely or curiously, often with intrusive intent
n. an act of prying; a tool for levering or opening
The word "pry" likely stems from Middle English prien, meaning "to peer closely," though its deeper origins remain uncertain. It may be related to Old English prēowian ("to press"), but this connection is speculative. Over time, "pry" evolved to emphasize intrusive curiosity or the act of forcing something open, reflecting both its literal (lever tool) and figurative (nosiness) meanings.
She couldn’t resist the urge to pry into her neighbor’s affairs.
Journalists often pry for details to uncover the truth.
He used a crowbar to pry open the stuck window.
Stop prying—it’s none of your business.
The detective’s prying questions made the witness uncomfortable.