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

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

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