Entertain

/ˌɛn.təˈteɪn/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to hold the attention of (someone) in an agreeable way; to amuse or engage someone.

The magician worked hard to entertain the audience with his tricks.

to provide amusement or enjoyment to; to keep someone occupied.

They invited friends over to entertain them during the holidays.

to consider or contemplate (a thought or idea).

She decided to entertain the idea of moving to another city.

to receive (someone) as a guest; to host.

They love to entertain guests at their beautiful home.

Middle English: from Old French 'entretenir', from Latin 'intertenere' meaning 'to keep among'.

entertain an idea

to think about something as a possibility.

entertain guests

to host and provide for people who visit.

hold an audience

to keep listeners interested and engaged.

entertaining

providing enjoyment or amusement.

entertainment

the action of providing or being provided with amusement or enjoyment.

entertainer

a person, such as a musician or actor, whose job is to entertain others.

to have a good time or enjoy oneself.

We went out last night and really entertained ourselves.

to keep someone busy or distracted.

I gave him my old video games to entertain him while I worked.