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ENTERTAIN Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com

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View synonyms for entertain

entertain

[ en-ter-teyn ]

verb (used with object)

  1. to hold the attention of pleasantly or agreeably; divert; amuse.

    Synonyms: regale, beguile

    Antonyms: bore

  2. to have as a guest; provide food, lodging, etc., for; show hospitality to.
  3. to admit into the mind; consider:

    He never entertained such ideas.

    Antonyms: reject

  4. to hold in the mind; harbor; cherish:

    They secretly entertained thoughts of revenge.

  5. Archaic. to maintain or keep up.
  6. Obsolete. to give admittance or reception to; receive.


verb (used without object)

  1. to exercise hospitality; entertain company; provide entertainment for guests:

    They loved to talk, dance, and entertain.

entertain

/ ˌɛntəˈteɪn /

verb

  1. to provide amusement for (a person or audience)
  2. to show hospitality to (guests)
  3. tr to hold in the mind

    to entertain an idea

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other Words From

  • over·enter·tained adjective
  • preen·ter·tain verb (used with object)
  • unen·ter·tained adjective
  • well-en·ter·tained adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of entertain1

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English entertenen “to hold mutually,” from Middle French entretenir, ultimately from Vulgar Latin intertenēre (unrecorded), from Latin inter- inter- + tenēre “to hold”
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Word History and Origins

Origin of entertain1

C15: from Old French entretenir, from entre- mutually + tenir to hold, from Latin tenēre
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Synonym Study

See amuse.
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Example Sentences

"We still feel positive that we can put on a show and entertain and inspire you all," Jones told BBC Sport.

From BBC

That’s not an entirely bad thing, as it focuses you on what’s happening in the moment, which is generally pretty entertaining, and away from whatever is absurd or improbable in the plot.

Another said: "Carrie Underwood is a lot more entertaining if you mute the TV."

From Salon

This is not the first time a Japanese aquarium has come up with innovative solutions to entertain animals in their care.

From BBC

His ability to entertain is part of his power and appeal.

From BBC

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