amusement

noun

amuse·​ment ə-ˈmyüz-mənt How to pronounce amusement (audio)
Synonyms of amusementnext
1
: a means of amusing or entertaining
what are her favorite amusements
2
: the condition of being amused
could not hide his amusement
3
: pleasurable diversion : entertainment
plays the piano for amusement

Examples of amusement in a Sentence

I'm reading this novel for amusement. Several games were provided for the education and amusement of the children.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Sure enough, the boys began to connect and disconnect people's calls simply for their own amusement. Arkansas Online, 17 Feb. 2026 In addition to a huge trampoline area with dodgeball, a ninja course, knockout basketball, a launch pad and a battle pit, the amusement center has other attractions like bowling, virtual reality, an arcade and a rock climbing wall. Catherine Messier, The Providence Journal, 11 Feb. 2026 Lake Como’s roots date back to 1889, when Denver investors dammed a creek about 5 miles west of downtown and built a luxury resort, casino and amusement rides modeled after Como, Italy. Kamal Morgan february 7, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Feb. 2026 Although disappointed that the audio leaked, many players look back on it with amusement. Doug Haller, New York Times, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amusement

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of amusement was in 1603

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amusement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amusement. Accessed 25 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

amusement

noun
amuse·​ment ə-ˈmyüz-mənt How to pronounce amusement (audio)
1
: something that amuses
2
: the condition of being amused

More from Merriam-Webster on amusement

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster