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.

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
don't be afraid to use height to create visual interest use cake stands to elevate desserts and teered trays for appetizers
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.