curiosity
kyoor-ee-OS-uh-tee
/ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/
A strong, intrinsic desire to know, explore, or learn about the world.
Refers to active, self-driven interest rather than passive absorption of facts.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'curiositas', rooted in 'cura' (care). Originally, it meant being careful or painstaking. Over medieval times, it evolved into an eager care to discover novel or hidden things.
Word relationships
- inquisitiveness: Inquisitiveness often implies questioning and investigating actively, whereas curiosity covers the inner emotional impulse.
- wonder: Wonder involves awe and admiration alongside the desire to understand.
- indifference: Indifference is a complete lack of interest or concern.
- apathy: Apathy is emotional detachment without desire to explore.
Commonly confused with
- curio: A curio is a rare or unusual physical object, whereas curiosity is the mental desire to know.
Word family
- curious (adjective): Eager to learn or know.
- curiously (adverb): In a curious manner.
Collocations
- spark curiosity
- natural curiosity
- intellectual curiosity
- satisfy curiosity
Idioms & expressions
- curiosity killed the cat
Example sentences
- "Encouraging a child's natural curiosity turns everyday outdoor play into rich scientific exploration." Early childhood science guide
Memory hook
CURIous minds CARE about finding answers. The inner drive to ask 'Why?'
When not to use
Do not use for forced memorization or reluctance to explore.
Fun facts
- Research shows that feeling curious releases dopamine, making learning deeply satisfying.
Explore more words
curious, inquisitive, inquiry, questioning, curio, intrinsic
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