The word "prying" is spelled with a y instead of an i even though it sounds like there should be an i. This is because of the rule that when the vowel sound in a word is preceded by a consonant, and followed by a suffix that begins with a vowel, the consonant is often doubled. In this case, the consonant before the vowel sound is "y" and the suffix that begins with a vowel is "-ing". So, "pry" becomes "prying" with the spelling "y". The IPA transcription for "prying" is /praɪɪŋ/.
Prying can be defined as an adjective that describes the act of being excessively curious or nosy, particularly regarding someone else's personal affairs or matters that are meant to be kept private. It conveys the idea of intrusiveness or being intrusive in one's attempt to obtain information that is not freely offered or meant to be shared. In such instances, prying individuals tend to invade personal boundaries and show an invasive interest in gathering details, often disregarding the right to privacy.
This term can also be used to refer to a sharp or pointed tool that is specifically designed for the purpose of loosening or lifting objects by inserting its edge underneath them. In this context, prying denotes the application of force or pressure to separate or extract something or to gain entry into a sealed or closed space.
Prying can additionally be used as a verb form, meaning the action of prying or the act of showing excessive curiosity. It signifies the act of trying to obtain undisclosed or hidden information by asking intrusive questions or by snooping around in a person's private affairs. Prying may involve attempts to uncover secrets, intruding into confidential matters, or meddling in situations that are none of the individual's concern.
Inspecting closely.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "prying" originated from the Old English word "prǣg" which meant "to ask, inquire, or enquire into". It later evolved into the Middle English word "pryen" with the same meaning. The root of the word can be traced back to the Old Norse word "fregna" meaning "to ask".