Entertain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
entertain
[หษntษrหteษชn ]
Definitions
enjoyable activity
Provide amusement or enjoyment to (someone) through a medium such as music, film, or theatre.
Synonyms
amuse, captivate, charm, delight.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| entertain |
This word is used when someone is providing enjoyment or amusement, usually through performances, activities, or events.
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| amuse |
This word is used when something causes laughter or provides fun, often through jokes or light-hearted activities.
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| delight |
This word is used when someone experiences a high degree of pleasure or joy due to something pleasant or satisfying.
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| charm |
This word is used when someone creates a positive impression through attractiveness and pleasing behavior.
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| captivate |
This word is used when someone or something is able to hold someone's full attention and interest due to being very interesting or attractive.
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Examples of usage
- He entertained the crowd with his jokes.
- The magician entertained the children at the birthday party.
hosting guests
Receive (someone) as a guest and provide them with food and drink.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| entertain |
Used when providing amusement or enjoyment to guests, typically at a party or event.
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| host |
Used when someone is organizing an event or gathering and is responsible for its execution, often implying a degree of formality.
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| welcome |
Used to show pleasure or friendliness when greeting someone arriving somewhere.
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| receive |
Used formally to describe the act of greeting or meeting someone; can imply a level of politeness or formality.
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Examples of usage
- She entertained her friends over the weekend.
- We entertained important clients at the company event.
consideration or discussion
Give attention or consideration to (an idea, suggestion, or feeling).
Synonyms
consider, contemplate, ponder.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| entertain |
This word is used when you are talking about providing or receiving amusement or enjoyment. It can also be used when considering an idea or a possibility briefly and without deep intent.
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| consider |
This word is often used when you are thinking carefully about something before making a decision. It suggests weighing the pros and cons and taking the time to reflect.
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| contemplate |
This word is appropriate when you are engaging in deep reflection or serious thought, often about existential, philosophical, or difficult matters. It indicates a more profound level of consideration.
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| ponder |
This word is best used when you are thinking deeply and carefully about something for a long time. It is similar to 'contemplate' but often suggests a slightly less formal or intense level of reflection.
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Examples of usage
- The committee will entertain the proposal at the next meeting.
- I'm willing to entertain other options if this one doesn't work out.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The entertainment industry is a multi-billion dollar global market, encompassing films, music, theater, video games, and more.
- Hollywood is often regarded as the entertainment capital of the world, producing countless films and television shows.
- Streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ have changed how people consume entertainment, making it available at any time.
Psychology
- Studies show that entertainment can significantly improve mood and reduce stress, acting as a form of escapism.
- Humor is a form of entertainment that also has therapeutic benefits, boosting endorphin levels in the brain.
- Engagement with entertainment, like watching a film or reading a book, can enhance empathy by allowing individuals to experience different perspectives.
History
- Ancient civilizations, like the Greeks and Romans, used theater as a popular form of entertainment that also addressed social and political issues.
- The introduction of the printing press in the 15th century dramatically increased access to entertaining literature, making it available to more people.
- Circuses became a popular form of entertainment in the 18th century, combining acts like juggling, clowning, and animal performances.
Literature
- Storytelling has been an essential form of entertainment across cultures, often used to pass down traditions and morals.
- Classic novels often explore themes of entertainment, such as Jane Austen's works that illustrate social engagements and amusements of her time.
- The rise of the graphic novel has blended entertainment with art, making engaging stories accessible to diverse audiences.
Origin of 'entertain'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'entertain' comes from the Latin word 'intertenere', which means to hold among or keep in.
- In the 14th century, the term was used in the sense of providing hospitality, showing the connection between welcoming others and amusement.
- By the 17th century, it evolved to mean amusing or holding someone's attention through performance.
The word 'entertain' originated from the Middle English word 'enterten' which meant 'to maintain, to keep up, to provide with food and lodging'. It has evolved over time to encompass a broader meaning of providing amusement or enjoyment. Entertainment has always been a vital part of human culture, ranging from storytelling around a campfire to the elaborate productions of modern-day entertainment industry.
See also: entertainer, entertainers, entertaining, entertainingly, entertainment.