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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 Johnny Mathis, the Grammy-winning singer who has entertained audiences since the 1950s, is retiring from touring, his team announced last week. Arkansas Online, 3 Apr. 2025 However, the Associated Press reported that both Trump and Musk have entertained the idea of USPS privatization. Jimmy Lovrien, Twin Cities, 2 Apr. 2025 As Von Teese straps on a new corset and Christian Louboutin heels, her fleet of fast-tapping dancers entertain the audience. Bryan West, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2025 Win or lose, the 2025 Padres should be entertaining on most days or nights. Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for entertain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for entertain
Verb
  • An English bulldog has developed an unusual nightly habit that continues to amuse her human family.
    Jason D. Greenblatt, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Apr. 2025
  • Ali grew up in college gyms and on bus rides, the son of volleyball royalty who amused himself by drawing plays in the sand.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • While contemplating his former love and his future as a father, Massey conjures up the apparition of his beloved Catherine.
    Claire Franken, TVLine, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Boasberg has been contemplating whether to hold any administration officials in contempt of court for ignoring his orders last month to turn around planes that were carrying the deportees to El Salvador.
    Alanna Durkin Richer, Chicago Tribune, 8 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Nick Jonas had someone special by his side at the Broadway opening of The Last Five Years on Sunday, April 6, 2025 in New York City.
    Dave Quinn, People.com, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Downsides While apple cider vinegar has potential benefits, taking it before bed can have some downsides.
    Johna Burdeos, Health, 7 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • There will also be new characters for guests to greet and learn their lore — an eccentric monster hunter and a talented musician who regales guests with songs and tales.
    Samantha Neely, USA Today, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Kreeger’s background Born an only child in New York City, Kreeger regaled guests with his stories bridging his work in the legal and musical communities.
    Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Sarah Wells ponders how her 13-year-old business, selling breast-pump backpacks and other items for new moms, will run under President Trump's new tariffs on all imports.
    Alina Selyukh, NPR, 7 Apr. 2025
  • And ponder why the tee shot on the par-3 12th creates such a riddle.
    Bob Spear, Charlotte Observer, 7 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The judge’s opinion would identify the grounds for an acquittal or for holding the defendants’ liable.
    Andrea Tinianow, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The same cat may appear in two other drawings held by the British Museum.
    Daniel Cassady for ARTnews, Robb Report, 10 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The dispute ended up before the Supreme Court, and Chief Justice John Roberts put that deadline on hold to allow the high court more time to consider the matter.
    Jacob Rosen, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Legal representatives for Nelly urged the judge presiding over the case to consider delaying the dismissal and holding St. Lunatics accountable for the legal charges incurred.
    Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 10 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • In the aftermath, the motion states, Doe retained legal counsel and, following months of negotiations, was able to reach a settlement with Schrader’s lawyers in February of this year.
    Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Status quo supporters claim voters still choose because the appointee must run for election to retain the seat.
    Bob Marshall, Denver Post, 4 Apr. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Entertain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entertain. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on entertain

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