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Intermediate Dictionary
       

in·ter·est

interest

 
 
pronunciation:
In t rihst [or] In trihst
parts of speech:
noun, verb
features:
Word Explorer
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the desire to learn, know, or take part in something.
The professor took an interest in his student's work.
synonyms:
enthusiasm
similar words:
absorption, attention, curiosity, engagement, heed, notice, stake, zeal
definition 2: someone or something that causes such a desire.
Plato is one of my interests.
similar words:
affair, care, concern, enthusiasm, hobby, pastime, preference, pursuit
definition 3: the power to cause such a desire.
Video games have no interest for me anymore.
definition 4: a rate that is paid for the use of another person's money.
The bank will pay us 7.9 percent interest on the money we keep there.
similar words:
dividend, percentage, profit, return, yield
definition 5: a right or share in something.
My sisters and I have equal interest in our family's company.
synonyms:
share, stake
similar words:
claim, due, right, stock
definition 6: concern for one's own self or benefit.
It is in your best interest to finish that report.
similar words:
advantage, benefit, gain, good, sake, welfare, well-being
 
part of speech: verb
inflections: interests, interesting, interested
definition 1: to convince to take part in; tempt.
Can I interest you in a cup of tea?
antonyms:
bore
similar words:
appeal, busy, engage, excite, inspire, stimulate, tempt
definition 2: to cause to have the desire to learn or know about something.
Math has interested me for many years.
synonyms:
engage, involve
similar words:
absorb, appeal, attract, concern, engross, enthrall, fascinate, grip, hold, rivet
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