3. To engage the attention of agreeably; to amuse with that which makes the time pass pleasantly; to divert; as, to entertain friends with conversation, etc. The weary time she can not entertain. Shak.
4. To give reception to; to receive, in general; to receive and take into consideration; to admit, treat, or make use of; as, to entertain a proposal. I am not here going to entertain so large a theme as the philosophy of Locke. De Quincey. A rumor gained ground, — and, however absurd, was entertained by some very sensible people. Hawthorne.
5. To meet or encounter, as an enemy. [Obs.] Shak.
6. To keep, hold, or maintain in the mind with favor; to keep in the mind; to harbor; to cherish; as, to entertain sentiments.
7. To lead on; to bring along; to introduce. [Obs.] To baptize all nations, and entertain them into the services institutions of the holy Jesus. Jer. Taylor.
Syn.
— To amuse; divert; maintain. See Amuse.
ENTERTAIN
En`ter*tain", v. i.
Defn: To receive, or provide entertainment for, guests; as, he entertains generously.
ENTERTAIN
En`ter*tain", n. Etym: [Cf. F. entretien, fr. entretenir.]
Defn: Entertainment. [Obs.] Spenser.