Meaning & Definition of word "Curiosity"

Curiosity

/kjʊəˈrɪoʊsɪti/

noun:

  • 1. A strong desire to know or learn something.
    • Example: Her curiosity about the world led her to travel to many different countries.
  • 2. An interesting or unusual quality or feature.
    • Example: The museum exhibits a variety of curiosities from ancient civilizations.
  • 3. A strange or unique object or phenomenon.
    • Example: The shop was filled with all sorts of curiosities, from vintage toys to exotic artifacts.

Etymology

From Latin 'curiositas', from 'curiosus' meaning 'careful, diligent, curious'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

curiosity killed the cat:

Saying used to warn against unnecessary investigation or experimentation.

curiosity breeds innovation:

Indicates that curiosity leads to new ideas and inventions.

Related Words

inquisitive:

Having or showing an interest in learning things; curious.

exploration:

The action of traveling in or through an unfamiliar area in order to learn about it.

Slang Meanings of curiosity

Meaning: nosey

Example Sentence: Don't be so nosey; it's not your business!

Meaning: peeping

Example Sentence: Stop peeping! My curiosity isn't an excuse.