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officious

adjective

/əˈfɪʃəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of officious

Excessively eager to offer unwanted or unnecessary help or advice, often in an intrusive or overbearing manner.
"The officious security guard refused to let anyone enter without proper clearance."

Detailed meaning of officious

It refers to a situation where someone is overly involved in other people's affairs, often with the intention of asserting their authority or demonstrating their importance. Officious individuals may insert themselves into situations where they are not needed or wanted, often causing more harm than good. The term 'officious' can also be used more broadly to describe any situation where someone acts in a way that is overly intrusive or interfering, such as in a workplace or social setting. Overall, the term 'officious' is used to describe someone who is excessively eager to offer unwanted or unnecessary help or advice, often in an intrusive or overbearing manner, and is often associated with behavior that is perceived as annoying or irritating.

Example sentences containing officious

1. The officious supervisor constantly interfered with my work.
2. She had an officious demeanor, always offering unsolicited advice.
3. The officious neighbor insisted on organizing everyone's schedules.
4. His officious behavior made him unpopular among his colleagues.
5. The officious salesperson wouldn't take no for an answer.
6. The officious committee member tried to control every aspect of the project.

History and etymology of officious

The adjective 'officious' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'officiosus,' which comes from 'officium,' meaning 'duty' or 'office.' Originally, 'officious' was used to describe individuals who were dutiful or conscientious in carrying out their responsibilities. However, over time, its meaning evolved to refer to people who are excessively eager to offer unwanted or unnecessary help or advice, often in an intrusive or overbearing manner. When someone is called 'officious,' it implies that they are overly meddlesome and tend to insert themselves into situations where their assistance or advice is not welcome or needed. Therefore, the etymology of 'officious' reflects its historical connection to the concept of duty and responsibility, underscoring its role in describing individuals who are excessively interfering or overzealous in their attempts to be helpful, as conveyed by its linguistic heritage.

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Further usage examples of officious

1. I found his officious manner irritating and condescending.
2. The officious security guard demanded identification from everyone entering the building.
3. Her officious nature often resulted in unnecessary delays.
4. The officious teacher insisted on strict adherence to the rules.
5. The officious bureaucrat seemed more interested in exercising power than helping people.
6. I didn't appreciate his officious meddling in my personal affairs.
7. The officious receptionist acted as if she owned the company.
8. His officious involvement in the situation only complicated matters.
9. The officious waiter kept interrupting our conversation to offer unwanted suggestions.
10. The officious manager micromanaged every task, stifling creativity.
11. The officious coach insisted on controlling every aspect of the team's strategy.
12. Her officious attitude created an uncomfortable atmosphere in the office.
13. I couldn't stand his officious tone; it felt like he was talking down to me.
14. The officious clerk made the simple transaction more complicated than necessary.