amusement

noun

amuse·​ment ə-ˈmyüz-mənt How to pronounce amusement (audio)
Synonyms of amusement
1
: a means of amusing or entertaining
what are her favorite amusements
2
: the condition of being amused
could not hide his amusement
3
: pleasurable diversion : entertainment
plays the piano for amusement

Synonyms of amusement

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Examples of amusement in a Sentence

I'm reading this novel for amusement. Several games were provided for the education and amusement of the children.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Of the Daise stick-on, Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman says her amusement with the accessory was short-lived. — Elizabeth Gulino, Allure, 20 Oct. 2026 In IconArrows pointing outwards For an extra admission fee, the farm also offers amusement rides and carnival games. — Sophie Caldwell, CNBC, 17 Oct. 2026 Opening in limited release on October 15, critics are more or less united in their awe, amusement, and sheer bafflement at what Fielder and Oppenheim were able to capture. — Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 15 Oct. 2026 The Georgia Office of the Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, which oversees safety inspections of amusement and carnival rides, has also launched an investigation of the roller coaster. — Karina Tsui, CNN Money, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for amusement

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of amusement was in 1603

Phrases Containing amusement

Browse Nearby Words

amuse-gueule
amusement
amusement arcade
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Amusement.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/amusement. Accessed 23 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

amusement

noun
amuse·​ment ə-ˈmyüz-mənt How to pronounce amusement (audio)
1
: something that amuses
2
: the condition of being amused
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