Definition of amusenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word amuse different from other verbs like it?

The words divert and entertain are common synonyms of amuse. While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly.

amuse yourselves while I make dinner

When might divert be a better fit than amuse?

While in some cases nearly identical to amuse, divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny.

a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

Where would entertain be a reasonable alternative to amuse?

The words entertain and amuse are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods.

a magician entertaining children at a party

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of amuse There’s some good Armani couture, and I was amused by Amari (Simone Ashley), Miranda’s current assistant, wearing a Thom Browne uniform. José Criales-Unzueta, Vanity Fair, 30 Apr. 2026 The thing that really amused me is that at the beginning of the process, Duncan had written this great adaptation and script. Damon Wise, Deadline, 20 Apr. 2026 Set the scene Arrive by car and enter the hotel’s main driveway to then be greeted by the resort’s grand Florentine Fountain with four sculpted water nymphs dancing around an octagonal pool, a visual amuse bouche to the opulence that awaits. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Apr. 2026 There can be moments when she is comforted by the town or is amused by the town or finds joy in the town. Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amuse
Recent Examples of Synonyms for amuse
Verb
  • Upon the third ask, Bontempo decided to actually entertain the possibility.
    Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 13 May 2026
  • Callers also noted more recent reporting in 2025 from THR, TheWrap, and elsewhere that Decurion has received several offers to acquire the entire complex, but Decurion has not entertained those offers or made the Cinerama Dome itself available.
    Brian Welk, IndieWire, 12 May 2026
Verb
  • The movie ends with Johnny regaling Baraka with tales of his heroism.
    Aaron Couch, HollywoodReporter, 14 May 2026
  • Locals are happy to regale you with tales of family squabbles and fishing exploits at any of the seaside watering holes.
    Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 2 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Amuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/amuse. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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