1
a
: inquisitive interest in others’ concerns : nosiness
The construction inside their house aroused the curiosity of their neighbors.
b
: interest leading to inquiry
Her natural curiosity led her to ask more questions.
2
archaic : undue nicety or fastidiousness
3
a
: one that arouses interest especially for uncommon or exotic characteristics
Tobacco was once regarded as a curiosity in Europe.
Synonyms
Examples of curiosity in a Sentence
Her natural curiosity led her to ask more questions. The arrival of a construction crew at their house attracted the curiosity of their neighbors. The movie failed to satisfy her curiosity about the assassination. Tobacco was once a curiosity in Europe. The antique shop was full of curiosities.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As that night unfolded with a kind of morbid curiosity — was this really happening? —
Bill Goodykoontz, The Arizona Republic, 6 Nov. 2024 Listen with curiosity and be transparent about company and team visions. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 Mexico’s obsession with Korean series — and more cultural curiosity While Mickey’s cultural identity is not a focal point, García-Rulfo, who has played his fair share of drug dealers, recognized the significance of his portrayal of a Mexican lawyer. —Max Gao, NBC News, 5 Nov. 2024 This transition brings a sense of curiosity and expansion to your personal life, inspiring a desire to explore everything from your family lineage to the color of your wallpaper. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for curiosity 
Word History
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of curiosity was in the 14th century
Dictionary Entries Near curiosity
Cite this Entry
“Curiosity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curiosity. Accessed 27 Nov. 2024.
More from Merriam-Webster on curiosity
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