Emily Dickinson Lexicon

IN'TER-EST, n.

1. Concern; advantage; good; as, private interest; public interest. Divisions hinder the common interest and public good. Temple.
2. Influence over others. They had now lost their interest at court. He knew his interest sufficient to procure the office. Rambler.
3. Share; portion; part; participation in value. He has parted with his interest in the stocks. He has an interest in a manufactory of cotton goods.
4. Regard to private profit. 'Tis interest calls off all her sneaking train. Pope.
5. Premium paid for the use of money; the profit per cent. derived from money lent, or property used by another person, or from debts remaining unpaid. Commercial states have a legal rate of interest. Debts on book bear an interest after the expiration of the credit. Courts allow interest in many cases where it is not stipulated. A higher rate of interest than that which the law allows, is called usury. Simple interest is that which arises from the principal sum only. Compound interest is that which arises from the principal with the interest added; interest on interest.
6. Any surplus advantage. With all speed, / You shall have your desires with interest. Shak.