Entertaiment is the activity of entertaining others, whether by a performance, through games or sports, through an artistic medium such as art, music or dance, or even simply through reading. It provides a form of recreation, relieves stress, boosts self-esteem and develops friendships. It also helps develop social skills and communication.
Children’s entertainment is centred on play and is important for their development. It teaches them to mimic adult activities such as watching performances (on television), prepares them for their future responsibilities through playing with dolls or group games, develops motor skills needed for sports and music, and teaches them how to interact with each other in various ways.
The word entertain comes from the Latin intertenere, meaning “to hold inside.” Click on the collocations button to see other examples.