entertainment

[en-ter-teyn-muhnt]

noun

1. the act of entertaining; entertaining; agreeable occupation for the mind; diversion; amusement.

   Solving the daily crossword puzzle is an entertainment for many.

2. something affording pleasure, diversion, or amusement, especially a performance of some kind.

   The highlight of the ball was an elaborate entertainment.

3. hospitable provision for the needs and wants of guests.

4. a divertingly adventurous, comic, or picaresque novel.

5. Obsolete.,  maintenance in service.

entertainment

/ ˌɛntəˈteɪnmənt /

noun

1. the act or art of entertaining or state of being entertained

2. an act, production, etc, that entertains; diversion; amusement

Other Word Forms

• nonentertainment noun
• preentertainment noun
• self-entertainment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of entertainment¹

First recorded in 1525–35; entertain + -ment

Example Sentences

In an L.A. ravaged by fires, ICE and a doom-stricken mood in its hallmark entertainment industries, Oasis’ return is a rare spectacle to look forward to as well.

From Los Angeles Times

Her Netflix deal may have been downgraded to “first look,” but it’s a big entertainment company; surely there is something she could do.

From Los Angeles Times

The three entertainment industry leaders control much of the most valuable intellectual property in Hollywood.

From Los Angeles Times

As AI disrupts industries including entertainment and healthcare, workers have expressed anxiety about whether they will lose their jobs.

From Los Angeles Times

"With this landmark action, we have put more points on the board for sports leagues, entertainment companies, and fans worldwide," he said.

From BBC