entertaining

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entertain

An entertaining experience or thing keeps us engaged and interested. Something fun or thought-provoking can be entertaining.

When people talk about an event being entertaining, they usually mean that it was enjoyable to watch or participate in. For example, if someone says a comedy show was entertaining, they probably laughed and had a good time. If a movie is described as entertaining, it's likely that the story is engaging and keeps you interested from start to finish. On the other hand, some activities are naturally entertaining, like playing sports or hiking in nature – they can be fun and also provide exercise or mental stimulation.

How common is "entertaining"?

Word entertaining is considered uncommon in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

verb

To amuse (someone); to engage the attention of agreeably.
Example: The motivational speaker not only instructed but also entertained the audience.
To have someone over at one's home for a party or visit.
Example: They enjoy entertaining a lot.
To receive and take into consideration; to have a thought in mind.
Example: The committee would like to entertain the idea of reducing the budget figures.
To take or keep in one's service; to maintain; to support; to harbour; to keep.
To meet or encounter, as an enemy.
To lead on; to bring along; to introduce.