Interest

Definition

Interest is a noun and verb that refers to the feeling of curiosity or concern about something (noun) or the act of attracting someone's curiosity or concern (verb). It can also mean a financial charge for borrowing money or a share in something such as a business.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪn.trəst/ or /ˈɪn.tə.rɛst/
• Respelling: IN-truhst or IN-ter-est

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪn.trəst/ or /ˈɪn.tə.rɛst/
• Respelling: IN-truhst or IN-ter-est

Etymology

The word "interest" originates from the Latin "interesse," meaning "to be between" or "to matter," from "inter-" (between) and "esse" (to be). It was adopted into Middle English via Old French and evolved to include both financial and emotional meanings.

Derivatives

• Interested (adjective)
• Interesting (adjective)
• Disinterest (noun)
• Uninterested (adjective)
• Interest-free (adjective)

Synonyms

• Curiosity
• Engagement
• Fascination

Antonyms

• Disinterest
• Boredom
• Indifference

Usage

The term "interest" is used in various contexts, including emotional engagement, finance, and legal matters. For example, "He has a keen interest in history," or "The loan has a 5% annual interest rate."

Related Terms

• Engagement: The state of being involved or interested in something.
• Curiosity: A strong desire to learn or know something.
• Dividend: A payment of interest or profit.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A feeling of curiosity or concern: Refers to an emotional or intellectual engagement with something.
  • Example: "Her interest in art grew over time."
• A financial charge for borrowing money: Refers to the cost paid for the use of borrowed funds.
  • Example: "The loan carries an annual interest rate of 4%."
• A share or involvement in something: Describes participation in an organization, business, or legal matter.
  • Example: "He has a 20% interest in the company."

Verb

• To attract or engage someone's attention or curiosity: Refers to sparking curiosity or involvement.
  • Example: "The teacher's lecture interested the students."