entertain

en-ter-tain · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    To provide amusement or enjoyment for someone.

  2. 2.

    To receive and provide hospitality for guests.

  3. 3.

    To consider or give attention to an idea, suggestion, or feeling.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    entertain the idea — consider a possibility
  • •
    entertain doubts — have or consider uncertainties
  • •
    entertain guests — receive and provide hospitality to visitors

Related words

Antonyms: bore, tire, weary
See also: entertained, entertaining, entertainment
Synonyms: amuse, delight, divert, host

Etymology

From Old French entretenir ("to hold together, maintain"), from entre- ("among") + tenir ("to hold"), from Latin tenere ("to hold").