ENTERTAIN Synonyms: 176 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'entertain' different from other verbs like it?

The words amuse and divert are common synonyms of entertain . While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods. // a magician entertaining children at a party

Q: When is it sensible to use 'amuse' instead of 'entertain'?

The words amuse and entertain are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly. // amuse yourselves while I make dinner

Q: When is 'divert' a more appropriate choice than 'entertain'?

The meanings of divert and entertain largely overlap; however, divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny. // a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

entertain

verb

ˌen-tər-ˈtān

Definition of entertain next

as in to amuse

to cause (someone) to pass the time agreeably occupied entertain the kids while I go and prepare dinner

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to contemplate

to give serious and careful thought to have you ever entertained the thought that you could be wrong?

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to have

to keep in one's mind or heart I don't entertain the hope of ever getting a girl like that to go out with me

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word entertain different from other verbs like it?

The words amuse and divert are common synonyms of entertain. While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods.

a magician entertaining children at a party

When is it sensible to use amuse instead of entertain?

The words amuse and entertain are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly.

amuse yourselves while I make dinner

When is divert a more appropriate choice than entertain?

The meanings of divert and entertain largely overlap; however, divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny.

a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of entertain Griffin, Hodgson, and Bien each use their designs for entertaining items and other personalized decor. —

Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 1 Nov. 2024 Photo: Anton Brookes, H5 Property/Douglas Elliman/H5 Property A living area where Weidman must have entertained. —

Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 31 Oct. 2024 Dream Theater has been entertaining millions of fans for almost 40 years now. —

Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Old Town Music Hall While not exactly in L.A. proper, Old Town Music Hall has been entertaining patrons in El Segundo, California since 1968 and is home to one of the last functioning Wurlitzer pipe organs housed in a movie theater. —

Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 27 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for entertain

Recent Examples of Synonyms for entertain

Verb

Fans were amused by the basketball team taking the city's public transit system.

Marina Watts, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024
Dunkin' Donuts has amused its fanbase and competitors alike following a rather spicy post to the brand's Instagram account.

Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY, 25 Oct. 2024