Meaning & use

curious

adjective·Everyday

Eager to find out about something or understand how it works.

See it in a sentence

The curious child wanted to know why the moon changed shape.

I am curious about the small door behind the staircase.

A note on using this word

Use 'curious about' a topic or 'curious to know' an answer. The separate meaning 'strange' appears in phrases such as 'a curious coincidence.'

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. adjective

Unusual or strange in a way that attracts attention.

A curious tapping sound came from the empty cupboard.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “curious”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.