n. 1 attention, attentiveness, concern, regard, curiosity, scrutiny, notice, engagement The way the puzzle fitted together drew my interest She examined the books with interest. She shows interest in taking a writing course. 2 concern, significance, importance, weight, moment, note, consequence Of what interest is a newly found painting by Tiepolo? 3 Often, interests profit, advantage, benefit, good, avail, worth, value, consideration, behalf, behoof Is it in our interest to sell the business? 4 share, portion, stake, investment, piece, cut, percentage, participation, involvement I have a small interest in an emerald mine 5 Often, interests. business, concern, affair, property; hobby, pastime, diversion, avocation, amusement, entertainment, pursuit, relaxation, occupation She travels abroad to look after her interests Caroline has many interests besides business. 6 (lending) fee or charge, percentage, rate, Slang US vigorish How much interest would the bank charge on a $40,000 mortgage?
v. 7 engage, absorb, engross, attract, draw, catch, capture, captivate, hold, fascinate, intrigue, excite, incite, provoke, arouse, affect, quicken, infect, animate, kindle, fire At that time, our daughter was interested only in boys There is something about astronomy that interests me. 8 influence, induce, persuade, move, tempt, involve, enrol, enlist, dispose, incline, prevail upon, talk into, concern: Could I interest you in investing in my company?