rhizoverbBeta
DictionarykibitzCasual commentary
verb

kibitz

KIB-its/ˈkɪbɪts/

To make casual comments or offer unsolicited advice during an activity.

The spectator kibitzes by pointing out a move in someone else's chess game.

An uninvited spectator leans over a chess game and points out a move.
Etymology
kibitzGermanlapwing

The lapwing had a folk reputation as a meddler. Its name underlies the expression for watching a card game and offering unwelcome advice, later extended to unsolicited comments more generally.

More examples

  • Please stop kibitzing while I decide my move.
  • The spectators kibitzed throughout the card game.
  • She enjoys kibitzing even when nobody asks for advice.

Forms

kibitz · kibitzes · kibitzed · kibitzing

kibitzer noun — a person offering casual unsolicited comments

Similar words

advise
Advise can be requested and formal; kibitz suggests casual, often unsolicited comments from the sidelines.
heckle
Heckle disrupts or taunts; kibitz may be friendly despite being intrusive.