Pry

Pry generally means to carefully and often gradually look into or investigate something, usually by opening or lifting a cover, lid, or obstacle. It's like gently lifting a stuck lid or peeling back a layer to see what’s underneath. For example, you might pry open a stuck drawer or pry off a paint lid. In a broader sense, it can also mean to inquire into someone’s private matters, though this use is more figurative. Overall, prying involves applying gentle force or effort to access or uncover something that isn't immediately accessible.