Meaning & Definition of word "Entertain"
Entertain
/ˌɛn.təˈteɪn/
verb:
- 1. to hold the attention of (someone) in an agreeable way; to amuse or engage someone.
- Example: The magician worked hard to entertain the audience with his tricks.
- 2. to provide amusement or enjoyment to; to keep someone occupied.
- Example: They invited friends over to entertain them during the holidays.
- 3. to consider or contemplate (a thought or idea).
- Example: She decided to entertain the idea of moving to another city.
- 4. to receive (someone) as a guest; to host.
- Example: They love to entertain guests at their beautiful home.
Etymology
●Middle English: from Old French 'entretenir', from Latin 'intertenere' meaning 'to keep among'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
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.
Slang Meanings of entertain
Meaning: to have a good time or enjoy oneself.
● Example Sentence: We went out last night and really entertained ourselves.
Meaning: to keep someone busy or distracted.
● Example Sentence: I gave him my old video games to entertain him while I worked.