entertain

 
Pronunciation: /ɛntəˈteɪn/

verb

[with object]
  • 1provide (someone) with amusement or enjoyment: a tremendous game that thoroughly entertained the crowd
  • receive (someone) as a guest and provide them with food and drink: a private dining room where members could entertain groups of friends
  • 2give attention or consideration to (an idea or feeling): Washington entertained little hope of an early improvement in relations

Origin:

late Middle English: from French entretenir, based on Latin inter 'among' + tenere 'to hold'. The word originally meant 'maintain, continue', later 'maintain in a certain condition, treat in a certain way', also 'show hospitality' (late 15th century)