entertain

Formsentertains, entertaining, entertained

1. 1
   verbtransitive

   To amuse someone and hold their interest in a fun way.

   Like keeping someone busy and happy, the way a fun game does.

   The clown entertained the children with silly tricks.

   She knows how to entertain a crowd with her stories.

   Similaramuse, divert, delight, engage, captivate

   Oppositebore, weary

   Note
2. 2
   verbtransitive or intransitive

   To have guests at your home for a visit or party.

   They entertained friends at their house last weekend.

   My parents love to entertain on holidays.

   Similarhost, receive

   Note
3. 3
   verbtransitive

   To think about an idea or offer carefully before deciding.

   Like letting an idea come in and sit with you for a while before you decide.

   The committee agreed to entertain his proposal.

   She refused to entertain any doubts about the plan.

   Similarconsider, contemplate, countenance, weigh

   Oppositereject, dismiss, disregard

   Note
4. 4
   verbIndiaMalaysiaPhilippinestransitive

   To help someone, or to answer a phone call.

   The receptionist entertained every call that came in.

   Staff are trained to entertain customers who need help.

   Similarhandle, serve, assist, field

   Note

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