Entertaining

Definition

Entertaining refers to the act of providing amusement or enjoyment, often through performances, activities, or content designed to engage an audience. It can also describe something that is enjoyable, amusing, or holds attention effectively.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Verb (Present participle of "entertain")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɛntərˈteɪnɪŋ/
• Respelling: en-tur-TAY-ning

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌɛntəˈteɪnɪŋ/
• Respelling: en-tuh-TAY-ning

The pronunciation of "entertaining" is consistent in both American and British English, with emphasis on the third syllable.

Etymology

The word "entertaining" is derived from the verb "entertain," which comes from the Old French "entretenir," meaning "to hold together" or "support." This, in turn, comes from the Latin "intertenere," combining "inter-" (among) and "tenere" (to hold). The meaning evolved to include providing amusement or enjoyment.

Derivatives

• Entertain (verb)
• Entertainment (noun)
• Entertained (adjective)
• Entertainer (noun)
• Unentertaining (adjective)

Synonyms

• Amusing
• Engaging
• Enjoyable

Antonyms

• Boring
• Dull
• Uninteresting

Usage

The word "entertaining" is often used to describe media, performances, or events that capture and hold an audience's attention in an enjoyable manner. It is also used more broadly to describe anything that provides amusement or pleasure.

Related Terms

• Recreation: Activities done for enjoyment when one is not working.
• Amusement: The state or experience of finding something funny or enjoyable.
• Leisure: Free time when one is not working and can enjoy hobbies or other activities.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Providing amusement or enjoyment: Describes something that is capable of amusing or holding the attention of an audience.
  • Example: "The movie was highly entertaining, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish."

Verb

• To amuse or engage someone’s attention: Refers to the act of providing enjoyment or amusement to others.
  • Example: "He was entertaining the guests with stories and jokes."