DictionaryinterestCuriosity or attention
noun / verb

interest

IN-truhst/ˈɪntrəst/

A desire to know about or engage with something.

The woman shows interest in a snail crawling on a leaf.

A woman leans close to examine a snail crawling on a leaf, her attentive gaze, raised eyebrows and small delighted smile making curiosity visibly central.
Etymology

Latin “be between” also meant “make a difference” or “be of importance.” From the idea that something concerns people, interest came to mean the attention or curiosity they feel toward it.

In context

The fusion Table1:26
don't be afraid to use height to create visual interest use cake stands to elevate desserts and teered trays for appetizers
How to Set Up a Stunning Buffet Table | Pro Tips & Ideas

More examples

  • The exhibit interested visitors of every age.
  • He has taken an interest in local history.
  • Her proposal has interested several potential partners.

Forms

interest · interests · interested · interesting

interesting adjective — Holding attention or arousing curiosity.

Similar words

curiosity
Specifically the desire to find out something.
fascination
A stronger, more absorbing interest in something.