amusement

American  

[uh-myooz-muhnt] / əˈmyuz mənt /

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

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amusement British  

/ 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

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Other Word Forms

• self-amusement noun

Etymology

Origin of amusement

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

Example Sentences

Iwerks is more interested in showing us the race against time, especially for a park that deviated from the light theming and simple rides of amusement parks of the era.

From Los Angeles Times

My lip twitched in amusement as I recalled Russell’s shock when I’d turned the water on him.

From Literature

Six Flags Entertainment agreed to sell seven of its regional amusement parks to EPR Properties for total cash consideration of $331 million.

From The Wall Street Journal

He peered down at me, half concern, half amusement.

From Literature

Students who, unlike the supervising professors, were doing nothing to hide their amusement at our situation as they laughed and pointed.

From Literature

Related Words

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