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o receive at one's board, or into one's house; to receive as a guest. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained unawares. Heb. xiii. 2.

One who entertains.

Affording entertainment; pleasing; amusing; diverting. -- En`ter*tain"ing*ly, adv. -- En`ter*tain"ing*ness, n.

tting, or cherishing; hospitable reception; also, reception or treatment, in general. The entertainment of Christ by faith. Baxter. The sincere entertainment and practice of the precepts of the gospel. Bp. Sprat.

That which abridges or cuts short; hence, an entertainment that makes the time pass quickly. [Obs.] What abridgment have you for this evening What mask What music Shak.

A piece performed after a play, usually a farce or other small entertainment.

In an agreeably manner; in a manner to give pleasure; pleasingly. "Agreeably entertained." Goldsmith.

An entertainment at which a medley of dishes is set on at the same time.

To entertain or occupy in a pleasant manner; to stir with pleasing or mirthful emotions; to divert. A group children amusing themselves with pushing stones from the top [of the cliff], and watching as they plunged into the lake. Gilpin.

Having power to amuse or entertain the mind; fitted to excite mirth. [R.] -- A*mu"sive*ly, adv. -- A*mu"sive*ness, n.

sary by way of equipment; to equip; to fit out. The English, being well appointed, did so entertain them that their ships departed terribly torn. Hayward.

To invite; as, to ask one to an entertainment.

or some common purpose, esp. for deliberation and legislation, for worship, or for social entertainment.

An artistic dance performed as a theatrical entertainment, or an interlude, by a number of persons, usually women. Sometimes, a scene accompanied by pantomime and dancing.

A feast; a sumptuous entertainment of eating and drinking; often, a complimentary or ceremonious feast, followed by speeches.

A social entertainment, where many people assemble, usually in the open air, at which one or more large animals are roasted or broiled whole.

To possess mentally; to carry or hold in the mind; to entertain; to harbor Dryden. The ancient grudge I bear him. Shak.

Hence: What is served on a table as food; stated meals; provision; entertainment; -- usually as furnished for pay; as, to work for one's board; the price of board.

By extension: To supply what is needed or desired, at theatrical or musical entertainments; -- followed by for or to.

That which promotes good spirits or cheerfulness; provisions prepared for a feast; entertainment; as, a table loaded with good cheer.