entertain
|en/ter/tain|
🇺🇸
/ˌɛn.tɚˈteɪn/
🇬🇧
/ˌɛn.təˈteɪn/
amuse or engage
Etymology
'entertain' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'entretenir,' where 'entre-' meant 'among' and 'tenir' meant 'to hold.'
'entretenir' transformed into the Middle English word 'entertainen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'entertain.'
Initially, it meant 'to hold together or support,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to amuse or engage.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to hold the attention of someone by providing amusement or enjoyment.
The magician entertained the children with his tricks.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to consider or allow oneself to think about an idea or feeling.
She entertained the idea of moving to a new city.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39