— amusable , adj. — amuser , n.
/euh myoohz"/ , v.t., amused, amusing .
1. to hold the attention of (someone) pleasantly; entertain or divert in an enjoyable or cheerful manner: She amused the guests with witty conversation.
2. to cause mirth, laughter, or the like, in: The comedian amused the audience with a steady stream of jokes.
3. to cause (time, leisure, etc.) to pass agreeably.
4. Archaic. to keep in expectation by flattery, pretenses, etc.
5. Obs.
a. to engross; absorb.
b. to puzzle; distract.
[ 1470-80; amuser to divert, amuse; see A- 5 , MUSE ]
Syn. 1. please, charm, cheer. AMUSE, DIVERT, ENTERTAIN mean to occupy the attention with something pleasant. That which AMUSES is usually playful or humorous and pleases the fancy. DIVERT implies turning the attention from serious thoughts or pursuits to something light, amusing, or lively. That which ENTERTAINS usually does so because of a plan or program that engages and holds the attention by being pleasing and sometimes instructive.