'amuse' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'amuser,' where 'a-' meant 'at' and 'muser' meant 'to ponder or stare.'

'amuser' transformed into the Middle English word 'amusen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'amuse.'

Initially, it meant 'to divert the attention,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to entertain or make someone laugh.'