Entertainer - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in show business

A person who entertains others, often by performing music, comedy, or other forms of live entertainment. Entertainers can include musicians, actors, comedians, magicians, and more.

Synonyms

artist, performer, showman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
entertainer	Use this word when referring to someone whose job or main role is to entertain people, typically through music, comedy, acting, or other performance arts. She is a talented entertainer who can make people laugh for hours The magic show was a hit thanks to the skilled entertainer
performer	Use this word for someone who performs in front of an audience, which can include musicians, dancers, actors, and other types of entertainers. It focuses more on the act of performing. The circus performers amazed the audience with their acrobatics She is a seasoned performer with years of experience on stage
artist	Use this word when referring to someone who practices any of the creative arts, such as painting, drawing, sculpture, or other forms of visual arts. It can also be used to describe performers who express their creativity in unique ways. He is an incredible artist known for his abstract paintings The city's cultural festival featured many local artists
showman	Use this word for someone who is very good at entertaining people and often known for their flair and charisma. It can have a slightly old-fashioned or exaggerated connotation. He is a true showman who knows how to captivate an audience with his charm The concert was unforgettable thanks to the showman's dazzling performance

Examples of usage

He is a talented entertainer who never fails to captivate the audience.
The entertainer wowed the crowd with her amazing dance routine.
The job of an entertainer requires creativity, passion, and stage presence.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

Some of the most famous entertainers, like Michael Jackson and Madonna, have had a profound impact on music and dance worldwide.
Reality television has created a new breed of entertainers, with personalities like Kim Kardashian reshaping what stardom looks like.

Psychology

Research suggests that entertainers can significantly affect emotional well-being, providing joy and a sense of community.
Humor and entertainment can serve as effective coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety in everyday life.

History

In ancient Rome, entertainers included gladiators and performers who captivated audiences in arenas.
The Commedia dell'arte in Italy during the Renaissance laid the groundwork for modern theater, influencing various forms of entertainment.

Literature

Many novels and plays, such as Chekhov's 'The Seagull', explore the lives of entertainers and their struggles with societal expectations.
Shakespeare's comedies often featured entertainers who used wit and humor to highlight human follies and engage the audience.

Origin of 'entertainer'

Main points about word origin

The word 'entertainer' comes from the Old French word 'entretenir', meaning to support or hold together.
In the early 19th century, the term was used primarily to describe performers in the theater or circus.

The word 'entertainer' originated in the 15th century, derived from the Middle French word 'entertaineur' which means 'one who entertains'. Over the centuries, entertainers have played a crucial role in providing amusement and diversion to audiences around the world. From ancient minstrels to modern-day celebrities, entertainers continue to shape the world of entertainment.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,457, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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23454 seep
23455 radish
23456 perversity
23457 entertainer
23458 metacarpal
23459 maths
23460 knotty
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Entertainer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations