amusement

[ uh-myooz-muhnt ]

noun

1. anything that amuses or entertains; pastime:

   The park offers authentic Danish charm and an array of amusements and thrill rides.

   Synonyms: game

2. the act of amusing or entertaining; diversion:

   He invented indoor golf games for his own amusement, and for the amusement of his children.

3. the state of being amused; enjoyment:

   Mom couldn't hide her amusement when my little sister tried to make dinner.

   Synonyms: delight

amusement

/ əˈmjuːzmənt /

noun

1. something that amuses, such as a game or other pastime
2. a mechanical device used for entertainment, as at a fair
3. the act of amusing or the state or quality of being amused

Other Words From

• self-a·muse·ment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of amusement¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Middle French; amuse, -ment

Example Sentences

Reporters for Punchbowl News and the Washington Post said the reactions from Republican and Democratic lawmakers ranged from surprise to amusement.

From Salon

"You promoted the physical torture of monkeys by others, you shared videos and images of such torture and abuse, retained images and videos for what appeared to be your own pleasure and amusement," he said.

From BBC

In 1990, he opened a small children’s amusement park on a remote patch of land just north of Seoul.

From Los Angeles Times

Footage from their playing days provides amusement, rather than education, to their young charges.

From BBC

You’ll find few better companions providing such amusement in exchange for so little of your attention — perfect for a day when it’s helplessly divided.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• delight
• diversion
• enjoyment
• hilarity
• laughter
• pleasure