plural noun
Activities or subjects that someone enjoys doing or learning about.
I have many interests, including reading and hiking.
Her interests include science and photography.
American English
How to pronounce interests
noun · verbB1Very common word
IHNterihsts
/ˈɪn.tɚ.ɪsts/
3 syllables · Stress the first syllable.
Form of interest
Interests can be a plural noun or the third-person singular form of interest.
Activities or subjects that someone enjoys doing or learning about.
What to listen for
“Interests” is commonly pronounced /ˈɪn.tɹɪsts/. You may also hear the longer form /ˈɪn.tɚ.ɪsts/.
Common shorter form/ˈɪn.tɹɪsts/
Longer form/ˈɪn.tɚ.ɪsts/
Meanings & examples
plural noun
Benefits, advantages, or concerns that affect a person or group.
The lawyer protected the children's interests.
The law protects the interests of local residents.
plural noun
Shares or financial connections to businesses, property, or projects.
The company has interests in several local businesses.
The investors sold their interests in the property.
third-person singular verb
Makes someone want to know more about something or pay attention to it.
That subject interests many students.
The new documentary interests her because it shows marine life.
Good to know
Interests describes what causes curiosity; use interested, not interests, to describe a person's feeling.
Useful expressions
to want to know more about or take part in something
I'm interested in local history.
to begin to pay attention to or care about something
She took an interest in the new employee.
for the benefit and protection of someone
We acted in the best interests of the child.