Definitions of interest:

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

  Example: "They said nothing of great interest"

• noun:   a sense of concern with and curiosity about someone or something

  Example: "An interest in music"

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

  Example: "The iron interests stepped up production"

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

  Example: "They have interests all over the world"

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

  Example: "How much interest do you pay on your mortgage?"

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

  Example: "He counts reading among his interests"

• noun:   a reason for wanting something done

  Example: "In the interest of safety"

• verb:   excite the curiosity of; engage the interest of
• verb:   be on the mind of
• verb:   be of importance or consequence