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

'amuser' transformed into the English word 'amuse,' and eventually became the modern English word 'amusingly' through the addition of the suffix '-ly.'

Initially, it meant 'to entertain or occupy in a pleasant manner,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.