curious

Everyday

1. Wanting to know or learn about something; eager to find out. tree →
2. Strange, unusual or interesting in a surprising way (a curious noise). tree →

In the lessons

At school being curious is praised: curious pupils ask questions, explore and experiment — it is how science starts. In stories a curious character often finds an adventure or gets into trouble (Alice was curious and followed the rabbit). In safety: being curious is good, but don't touch unknown animals, plants, pills or objects — ask an adult. Phrases: curious about, curious to know, curiouser and curiouser (from Alice in Wonderland), curiosity killed the cat (a saying that warns against being too nosy).

Examples

• Kittens are very curious and explore every box. tree →
• I'm curious about how volcanoes work. tree →
• She was curious to know what was inside the parcel. tree →
• A curious smell came from the kitchen. tree →
• Curious scientists ask «Why?» and «What if?» tree →
• It's good to be curious, but don't touch a needle you find on the ground. tree →
• What a curious little shell — it's shaped like a spiral! tree →
• I am curious to hear the end." tree →

Note

Two meanings: «curious» about something = wanting to know; «a curious thing» = strange. Noun: curiosity. Being curious is different from being «nosy», which means too interested in other people's private business.