The word "entertain" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription of /ɛntərˈteɪn/. This word begins with the stressed syllable /ɛnt/ followed by the unstressed syllable /ər/. The final stressed syllable is spelled as /teɪn/. This can be confusing for non-native speakers as it is not spelled as it is pronounced. However, memorizing the IPA phonetic transcription can help with proper pronunciation and spelling of this word. "Entertain" means to provide enjoyment or amusement for a group of people.
To entertain means to provide amusement, enjoyment, or diversion to someone through various forms of engagement, such as performances, activities, or conversations. It involves capturing the attention or interest of others in an entertaining and captivating manner, often aimed at creating a sense of pleasure or amusement.
In the context of social gatherings or events, entertaining refers to hosting or providing activities that keep guests engaged and entertained. This may include organizing games, parties, or events that promote enjoyment and social interaction. It could also involve managing aspects such as music, decorations, food, and beverages to enhance the overall atmosphere and create a pleasant experience for the attendees.
Additionally, entertainment can involve artistic or recreational activities, such as watching movies, reading books, attending concerts, or engaging in hobbies, which serve as a source of pleasure, relaxation, or stimulation.
On a broader scale, the term "entertain" encompasses the activities of performers, such as actors, comedians, musicians, and dancers, whose primary objective is to provide amusement and enjoyment to an audience. They use various mediums, such as theater, television, film, or live performances, to captivate and engage viewers or spectators through their talent, skill, or storytelling abilities.
Overall, the concept of entertaining revolves around creating a positive and enjoyable experience for others, often involving activities, performances, or engagements that captivate, amuse, or stimulate the audience's senses or interests.
• Entertaining.
• To treat with hospitality; to amuse or instruct by conversation; to cherish or harbour in the mind; to please or divert.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "entertain" originated from the Old French term "entretenir" which meant "to hold together, maintain". It was formed by combining the prefix "entre-" (meaning "between" or "among") and the verb "tenir" (meaning "to hold"). In Middle English, the term developed into "entertainen" which initially referred to the act of maintaining or providing for someone, particularly guests or visitors. Over time, its meaning expanded to include activities and performances that are intended to amuse or interest an audience, as we understand it today.