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

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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

Example 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 Leading up to the deadly 2021 riot, Trump and his allies had entertained a wild card theory that — if the results of the 2020 election were not certified by Congress — Joe Biden could be kept from assuming the presidency. —

Kyler Alvord, People.com, 21 Jan. 2025 The Play can be powered by an AC adapter or six AA batteries and features a pair of 2.5-watt speakers for entertaining a crowd without the need for additional equipment. —

Andrew Liszewski, The Verge, 21 Jan. 2025 These business leaders directly control the tools that billions of people around the world use to communicate, to receive information, to be entertained, to navigate and understand the world. —

Damon Beres, The Atlantic, 20 Jan. 2025 Then there was the time McEwen, while entertaining a guest at Bern’s Steak House, saw two out-of-town friends also dining at the famous restaurant. —

Mike Bianchi, Orlando Sentinel, 14 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for entertain

Recent Examples of Synonyms for entertain

Verb

With a scowl on his face, a beer in one hand, a cigarette in the other, Ferrell's unexpected appearance had fans equal parts amused and confused.

— Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 1 Feb. 2025
TikTok users were equal parts amused and horrified, with many sharing their thoughts on the faux pas in the post’s comments section.

— Toria Sheffield, People.com, 1 Feb. 2025