amuse — to entertain someone in an enjoyable way; to make someone laugh or smile
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to entertain someone in an enjoyable way; to make someone laugh or smile
Pronunciation (IPA): /əˈmjuːz/
Example Sentences
- My cat amuses me by chasing its own tail for hours.
- She was not amused when she found out about the prank.
- The comedian failed to amuse the tough crowd with his recycled jokes.
amuse
VERB[/əˈmjuːz/]
to entertain someone in an enjoyable way; to make someone laugh or smile
The street magician's silly tricks amuse the kids gathered around him.
When paths confuse, let laughter help you choose!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from 15th-century French, originally meaning 'to gaze at' or 'to stare'. Over time, the meaning evolved from contemplative observation to 'to entertain' or 'to pass time pleasantly', reflecting a semantic shift from passive viewing to active enjoyment.
Breakdown
a- (to, toward) + muser (to stare, gaze, or ponder), where muser itself derives from Old French muse, related to contemplative looking or meditation.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My cat amuses me by chasing its own tail for hours.”
“She was not amused when she found out about the prank.”
“The comedian failed to amuse the tough crowd with his recycled jokes.”
“Children are easily amused by simple games and colorful toys.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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