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Amuse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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amuse

[əˈmjuːz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in entertainment

To entertain or provide enjoyment to someone through humor, wit, or cleverness. It involves engaging the audience and creating a sense of amusement.

Synonyms

charm, delight, entertain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amuse

This word is typically used when you make someone smile or laugh lightly, often with jokes or playful behavior.

  • She amused the children with funny faces
  • The comedian's jokes amused the audience
entertain

Used when holding someone's attention and interest, making them enjoy themselves, especially through performances or activities.

  • The magician's tricks entertained the children for hours
  • They entertained guests with music and dance
delight

This word is often used when bringing great joy and pleasure to someone, usually through a special or unexpected event.

  • The performance delighted the audience
  • Her surprise visit delighted her parents
charm

Used when causing someone to feel attracted or enjoy something, often with politeness, grace, or charisma.

  • He charmed the guests with his witty conversation
  • The old town charms visitors with its historical buildings

Examples of usage

  • He tried to amuse the children with his magic tricks.
  • She told a funny story to amuse her friends at the party.
Context #2 | Verb

in a casual setting

To occupy someone's attention in a light-hearted or playful manner, often to pass the time or alleviate boredom.

Synonyms

divert, entertain, occupy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amuse

Used when you want to describe something that makes someone laugh or smile. It often implies light-hearted enjoyment.

  • The comedian's jokes always amuse the audience
  • The child was amused by the funny cartoon
entertain

More general and formal than 'amuse', often involving organized activities, performances, or events designed to provide pleasure or enjoyment.

  • The magician entertained the crowd with his tricks
  • The host always finds new ways to entertain her guests
divert

Used to describe shifting someone's attention from one thing to another, often to provide temporary distraction or relief.

  • The movie diverted me from my worries for a couple of hours
  • We tried to divert the children with a game while we prepared the meal
occupy

Refers to keeping someone busy or engaged, especially to prevent boredom or idle time. It might not necessarily be fun or enjoyable.

  • The teacher gave the students puzzles to occupy them while she prepared the lesson
  • I need something to occupy my mind during the long flight

Examples of usage

  • To amuse herself, she started doodling in her notebook.
  • The cat chased a ball of yarn, amusing itself for hours.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'amuse'

The word 'amuse' originated from the Middle French word 'amuser', which means 'to cause to be idle, to divert'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. Over time, the meaning evolved to focus more on entertainment and enjoyment, reflecting the idea of providing light-hearted fun and diversion.

See also: amusement, amusing, amusingly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,500, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.