curio

noun

cu·​rio ˈkyu̇r-ē-ˌō How to pronounce curio (audio)
ˈkyər-
plural curios
Synonyms of curionext
: something (such as a decorative object) considered novel, rare, or bizarre : curiosity
also : an unusual or bizarre person

Examples of curio in a Sentence

She loves to browse the shops in small towns, looking for curios. be careful of the fragile curios on the end tables
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Consider a curio cabinet or shadow box to highlight sentimental items in an organized manner. Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Dec. 2025 In addition to books there will be jewelry, curios, knick-knacks, puzzles and more. Andrea Manes, Oc Register, 4 Dec. 2025 Hamnet is a somber watch, much more nakedly sentimental and weepy than Zhao’s other films (including the wonderful neo-Western The Rider, the Oscar-winning drama Nomadland, and the Marvel curio Eternals). David Sims, The Atlantic, 27 Nov. 2025 Advertisement While most fish-out-of-water stories are keen to highlight the strangeness of the world in which the protagonist has embedded themselves, Rental Family treats the curios of Japanese culture with the utmost respect and a naturalistic approach. Barry Levitt, Time, 21 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for curio

Word History

Etymology

short for curiosity

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of curio was in 1849

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Curio.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/curio. Accessed 18 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

curio

noun
cu·​rio ˈkyu̇r-ē-ˌō How to pronounce curio (audio)
plural curios
: an object or article valued because it is strange or rare

More from Merriam-Webster on curio

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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