adj.
Pronunciation: ( ˌ )im- ' p ə r-t ə -n ə nt, - ' p ə rt-n ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin impertinent-, impertinens, from Latin in- + pertinent-, pertinens, present participle of pertin ē re to pertain
Date: 14th century
1 : not pertinent : IRRELEVANT
2 a : not restrained within due or proper bounds especially of propriety or good taste < impertinent curiosity> b : given to or characterized by insolent rudeness <an impertinent answer>
– im · per · ti · nent · ly adverb
synonyms IMPERTINENT , OFFICIOUS , MEDDLESOME , INTRUSIVE , OBTRUSIVE mean given to thrusting oneself into the affairs of others. IMPERTINENT implies exceeding the bounds of propriety in showing interest or curiosity or in offering advice <resented their impertinent interference>. OFFICIOUS implies the offering of services or attentions that are unwelcome or annoying < officious friends made the job harder>. MEDDLESOME stresses an annoying and usually prying interference in others' affairs <a meddlesome landlord>. INTRUSIVE implies a tactless or otherwise objectionable thrusting into others' affairs <tried to be helpful without being intrusive >. OBTRUSIVE stresses improper or offensive conspicuousness of interfering actions <expressed an obtrusive concern for his safety>.