interest

a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

• “an interest in music”

the power of attracting or holding one''s interest (because it is unusual or exciting etc.)

• “they said nothing of great interest”
• “primary colors can add interest to a room”

a reason for wanting something done

• “for your sake”
• “died for the sake of his country”
• “in the interest of safety”
• “in the common interest”

a fixed charge for borrowing money; usually a percentage of the amount borrowed

• “how much interest do you pay on your mortgage?”

a diversion that occupies one''s time and thoughts (usually pleasantly)

• “sailing is her favorite pastime”
• “his main pastime is gambling”
• “he counts reading among his interests”
• “they criticized the boy for his limited pursuits”

(law) a right or legal share of something; a financial involvement with something

• “they have interests all over the world”
• “a stake in the company”

(usually plural) a social group whose members control some field of activity and who have common aims

• “the iron interests stepped up production”

excite the curiosity of; engage the interest of

be on the mind of

• “I worry about the second Germanic consonant”

be of importance or consequence

• “This matters to me!”