Dictionary definition · interest
noun
- a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something"an interest in music"
- a reason for wanting something done"for your sake"
- the power of attracting or holding one's attention (because it is unusual or exciting etc.)"they said nothing of great interest"
- a fixed charge for borrowing money; usually a percentage of the amount borrowed"how much interest do you pay on your mortgage?"
- (law) a right or legal share of something; a financial involvement with something"they have interests all over the world"
- (usually plural) a social group whose members control some field of activity and who have common aims"the iron interests stepped up production"
- a diversion that occupies one's time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)"sailing is her favorite pastime"
verb
- excite the curiosity of; engage the interest of
- be on the mind of"I worry about the second Germanic consonant shift"
- be of importance or consequence"This matters to me!"
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).