First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1pry
verb \ˈprī\
priedpry·ing
Definition of PRY
intransitive verb
: to look closely or inquisitively; also : to make a nosy or presumptuous inquiry
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Origin of PRY
Middle English prien
2pry
verb
priedpry·ing
Definition of PRY
transitive verb
1
: to raise, move, or pull apart with a lever : prize
2
: to extract, detach, or open with difficulty <pried the secret out of my sister>
Origin of PRY
probably back-formation from 5prize
First Known Use: circa 1806
3pry
noun
PRY Defined for Kids
1pry
verb \ˈprī\
priedpry·ing
Definition of PRY for Kids
1
: to raise or open with a lever
2
: to get at with great difficulty <I couldn't pry the secret out of him.>
2pry
verb
priedpry·ing
Definition of PRY for Kids
: to be nosy about something <I don't mean to pry, but who is that girl I saw you with?>
Learn More About PRY
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