curiosity

cu-ri-os-i-ty · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A strong desire to know or learn something.

  2. 2.

    An unusual or interesting object or fact.

Forms

plural: curiosities

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    curiosity killed the cat — being too inquisitive can lead to trouble
  • •
    out of curiosity — motivated by a desire to know
  • •
    idle curiosity — interest without serious purpose
  • •
    burning curiosity — intense desire to know

Related words

Antonyms: apathy, indifference
See also: curious, interest, wonder
Synonyms: inquisitiveness, interest, nosiness

Etymology

From Latin "curiositas" (desire of knowledge, inquisitiveness), from "curiosus" (careful, inquisitive), from "cura" (care).