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 Word Forms

• self-amusement noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of amusement¹

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

Example Sentences

“The pH alone would probably take years off his life. And have you seen Kwame try to swim? It’s like watching a wounded cat in one of those wave pools at the amusement park!”

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Mater Lumley sipped her coffee with a look of private amusement.

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Ridge was bouncy and smiley, like a kid going to an amusement park.

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But Mr. Thein’s harried, good-humored attempt to keep up with the title cards’ rapid pace brought additional amusement—and a much deserved ovation for his valiant efforts.

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Yamu-nedjeh looked at me with both anger and amusement in his eyes.

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Related Words

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