amuse
uh-MYOOZ
Amuse (verb) means to entertain someone or make them laugh or smile. Example: “The clown amused the children with silly faces.”
verb
1
To entertain someone or make them laugh or smile.
"The clown amused the children with silly faces."
"His stories always amuse the whole office."
2
To occupy someone’s attention pleasantly, keeping them busy or distracted.
"She amused herself with a crossword while waiting for the train."
How to use amuse
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo make someone laugh, smile, or pass the time pleasantly.
Common pairings
amuse yourself
amuse the crowd
easily amused
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- amuses
- Past tense
- amused
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The clown _____ the children with silly faces.
Etymology
From Old French amuser, "to stupefy or occupy the mind," ultimately of uncertain origin.
Related words
Rhymes for amuse
See all rhymes for amuse →Frequently asked questions
What does “amuse” mean?
The word “amuse” means to entertain someone or make them laugh or smile. In plain terms, to make someone laugh, smile, or pass the time pleasantly.
How do you pronounce “amuse”?
“Amuse” is pronounced uh-MYOOZ (/əˈmjuːz/ in IPA).
How do you use “amuse” in a sentence?
Here is “amuse” used in a sentence: “The clown amused the children with silly faces.”
What is another word for “amuse”?
Words with a similar meaning to “amuse” include entertain, gratify, please, divert, beguile and exhilarate.
What part of speech is “amuse”?
“Amuse” is a verb.
Where does the word “amuse” come from?
The word “amuse” comes from Old French. From Old French amuser, "to stupefy or occupy the mind," ultimately of uncertain origin.
Is “amuse” a common word?
“Amuse” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “amuse” have?
“Amuse” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to entertain someone or make them laugh or smile.
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