amusement

noun

amuse·​ment ə-ˈmyüz-mənt 

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

Synonyms of amusement

• entertainment
• recreation

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

Until the very end, our friend and colleague Calvin Tomkins looked at his life with a sense of wonder and wry amusement. —David Remnick, New Yorker, 20 Mar. 2026

Ryan keeps to the room’s edges, watching with a mix of amusement and horror. —Clara Molot, Vanity Fair, 17 Mar. 2026

The fan’s commitment to his word drew reactions ranging from admiration to amusement. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 12 Mar. 2026

His role is pivotal as a heroic and charismatic young man who inspires his friends to use their powers for more than just their own amusement. —Ken Simmons, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Phrases Containing amusement

• amusement arcade
• amusement park
• to one's amusement

Kids Definition

amusement

noun

amuse·​ment ə-ˈmyüz-mənt 

1

: something that amuses

2

: the condition of being amused