1
as in to amuse
to cause (someone) to pass the time agreeably occupied
entertain the kids while I go and prepare dinner
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to contemplate
to give serious and careful thought to
have you ever entertained the thought that you could be wrong?
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in to have
to keep in one's mind or heart
I don't entertain the hope of ever getting a girl like that to go out with me
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of entertain
Similarly, homeowners who enjoy entertaining might prioritize a scullery or prep kitchen/pantry to keep the party mess out of view.
—
Elizabeth Hutchison Hicklin, Southern Living, 26 June 2025
Khamenei reportedly went into hiding during this month’s Israel-Iran conflict, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu openly entertained suggestions he should be assassinated and opponents called for a democratic uprising in Tehran.
—Elizabeth Crisp, The Hill, 24 June 2025
Being able to bring authentic mental health stories to life in a way that both resonates and entertains is an increasingly valuable skill, and one that can set you apart in today’s media landscape.
—Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
Hairpin turns and stressful pit stops go a long way toward entertaining F1 fans and neophytes alike, though melodrama and a bloated run time put the brakes on what should be a film that zips.
—Brian Truitt, USA Today, 18 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for entertain
Elizabeth Hutchison Hicklin, Southern Living, 26 June 2025
Khamenei reportedly went into hiding during this month’s Israel-Iran conflict, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu openly entertained suggestions he should be assassinated and opponents called for a democratic uprising in Tehran.
—Elizabeth Crisp, The Hill, 24 June 2025
Being able to bring authentic mental health stories to life in a way that both resonates and entertains is an increasingly valuable skill, and one that can set you apart in today’s media landscape.
—Mena Mirhom, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
Hairpin turns and stressful pit stops go a long way toward entertaining F1 fans and neophytes alike, though melodrama and a bloated run time put the brakes on what should be a film that zips.
—Brian Truitt, USA Today, 18 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for entertain
Recent Examples of Synonyms for entertain
Verb
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Joe Marinelli, the veteran character actor who amused and attracted admirers as the cross-dressing mobster Bunny Tagliatti on the NBC soap opera Santa Barbara, has died.—
Mike Barnes,
HollywoodReporter,
24 June 2025
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Apparently, the League was not amused when the Stanley Cup was dunked into seawater.—
Ben Crandell,
Sun Sentinel,
18 June 2025
Verb
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While Leslie’s book is largely about Lennon, McCartney and their fruitful collaborations, contemplate what George Harrison became.—
John Tamny,
Forbes.com,
2 July 2025
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Wright decided to come out after contemplating suicide in 2006.—
Jeff Nelson,
People.com,
30 June 2025
Verb
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Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant (a multi-Best of Beauty Award winner) has your back, with powerful protection that won’t leave behind telltale white marks.—
Christa Joanna Lee,
Allure,
29 June 2025
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With a sateen-weave finish, the sheets and pillowcases have a silky feel and a temperature-regulating design to help sleepers stay cool at night.—
Jenny Berg,
Vogue,
29 June 2025
Verb
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These experts regaled the audience with historical facts and anecdotes about masterpieces from the heritage house of Cartier, which has amassed one of the world’s most artistically and historically important jewelry archives.—
Kyle Roderick,
Forbes.com,
20 June 2025
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And yes, some plastic surgeons are apt to regale you with tales of their bespoke extended, vertical vector, composite flap, scarless, mystery, reset lift.—
Jolene Edgar,
Allure,
28 May 2025
Verb
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The modern 55 and older homebuyer isn’t looking to sit all day on a recliner pondering our end of life options.—
Jamie Gold,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2025
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The two countries have been engaged in aerial strikes and Trump had been pondering U.S. involvement for the past week.—
Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy,
USA Today,
23 June 2025
Verb
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Republicans, who hold a 53-47 majority, face united Democratic opposition − and the defection of at least two of their own members.—
Olivia Munson,
USA Today,
1 July 2025
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The central bank will hold four rate-setting meetings over the remainder of 2025 – and the first will happen on July 29 and 30.—
Max Zahn,
ABC News,
1 July 2025
Verb
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Many consider the cases to be politically motivated, although Erdogan’s government contends that the courts are impartial and free of political involvement.—
Los Angeles Times,
Los Angeles Times,
23 June 2025
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Despite its short length the canyon trail is rugged, so be sure to wear good hiking shoes and consider bringing a trekking pole.—
Maura Fox,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
23 June 2025
Verb
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The Miami Herald retains editorial control of all content.—
Denise Hruby,
Miami Herald,
28 June 2025
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Bezos retained 75% of the couple's Amazon stock, in addition to her voting control in the company, as previously reported by USA TODAY.—
Anthony Robledo,
USA Today,
28 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Entertain.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/entertain. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.
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