v.
Pronunciation: ˌ en-t ə r- ' t ā n
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English entertinen, from Middle French entretenir, from entre- inter- + tenir to hold ― more at TENABLE
Date: 15th century
transitive verb
1 a archaic : MAINTAIN b obsolete : RECEIVE
2 : to show hospitality to < entertain guests>
3 a : to keep, hold, or maintain in the mind <I entertain grave doubts about her sincerity> b : to receive and take into consideration <refused to entertain our plea>
4 : to provide entertainment for < entertain ed with songs and stories>
5 : to play against (an opposing team) on one's home field or court
intransitive verb : to provide entertainment especially for guests
synonyms see AMUSE
– en · ter · tain · er noun