interest-n; 7 Senses

Sense Number 1: curiosity or concern about something

Commentary: INTEREST[+state][+mental][+curiosity]

Examples:
I've developed a great interest in that story about the lost turtles.
John didn't show much interest in our report.
There appears to be some interest in getting this bill passed.

Mappings:
PropBank: interest.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: having the quality to attract attention

Commentary: INTEREST[+quality][+attention_getting] (usually SINGULAR, also w/wo preceding QUANT/DET)

Examples:
The fresh ginger adds interest to this vegetable dish.
The Latin American starlet provides the love interest in that film.
Skillful placement of lighting can create areas of interest in a room.

Mappings:
PropBank: interest.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3

Sense Number 3: for the sake of, or well-being of

Commentary: INTEREST[+state][+well_being] (often Prep(IN) DET INTEREST)

Examples:
It is not in their best interest to drop out of school.
They added airbags to cars in the interest of safety.
Unfortunately the new policy does not serve the interests of both the city and the state.

Mappings:
PropBank: interest.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 2

Sense Number 4: a rate of return on borrowed or lent money

Commentary: INTEREST[+quantity][+rate]

Examples:
They are charging 6 percent interest on that loan.
How much interest are you currently earning with your savings account?
What's the daily interest on the national debt?

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 4

Sense Number 5: a diversion, hobby or pleasurable pastime

Commentary: INTEREST[+activity][+diversion]

Examples:
Sailing and sport diving are among John's interests.
We don't seem to have a single interest in common.
Mary's passionate interest in cooking has led her to open her own restaurant.

Mappings:
PropBank: interest.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 7

Sense Number 6: rightful portion or stake of something

Commentary: INTEREST[+quantity][+portion]

Examples:
Sally owns a controlling interest in the company.
We each received an interest in the family farm.
That financier has oil interests all over the planet.

Mappings:
PropBank: NM
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 5

Sense Number 7: social group with specific aims or purposes

Commentary: INTEREST[+group][+social] (usually PLURAL)

Examples:
The steel interests have lobbied effectively in Washington.
He was criticized for catering to interests other than his constituency.

Mappings:
PropBank: interest.01
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 6