Entertaiment — A satisfying, agreeable occupation for the mind; a diversion or amusement: A crossword puzzle is entertainment for many.
Originally from the Latin inter tenere, from the Indo-European root ten, meaning “stretch,” entertainment has become a flexible term that can be adjusted for an individual’s private pleasure, or a banquet to accommodate two; an evening of dancing, music and drama; a performance geared to thousands; or even to a global audience.
Entertainment is a vital part of children’s development, as they mimic adult activities, such as watching performances or playing group games; learn skills that will later serve them in the workforce (such as cooking or fencing), or prepare for responsibilities and social interaction (with dolls, pets and group play). The famous story of Scheherazade from professional storytelling tradition has been adapted into orchestral works by Rimsky-Korsakov, Ravel and Szymanowski; a film by Pasolini; and innovative video games.