Entertaiment is a broad category of activities that provides amusement and enjoyment. It can range from a simple pleasure like solving a crossword puzzle to elaborate performances that may take place in a theater, concert hall or other venue. Entertainment is often associated with fun and laughter, but it can also serve a serious purpose like ceremonies, celebrations, religious festivals or even satire.

The word entertainment comes from the Medieval Latin intertenere, which meant “to hold inside.” It’s similar to the Indo-European root ten, meaning to stretch or extend. The experience of being entertained can change us as people.