Unlocking "Entertain": Your Ultimate Guide to Crossword Clues for Entertain

Are you a crossword enthusiast who sometimes gets stumped by the seemingly simple word "entertain"? You're not alone! While "entertain" might seem straightforward, its versatility in meaning can lead to a surprising variety of crossword clues for entertain. From hosting guests to simply holding a thought, this word can be a real puzzle.

But don't worry, you're about to become a master of "entertain" in the world of crosswords. This comprehensive guide will break down the common synonyms, contextual nuances, and clever tricks used by puzzle constructors, helping you crack those elusive entertain crossword clues with confidence.

Understanding the Nuances of "Entertain" in Crosswords

The word "entertain" isn't just about putting on a show. In crosswords, it can refer to several distinct actions or states. Recognizing these different facets is your first step to solving related clues.

To Amuse or Delight: This is perhaps the most common understanding. Think of comedians, musicians, or even a good book. Clues in this vein often point to amusement or pleasure.
To Host or Receive Guests: "Entertain" can mean to welcome and provide hospitality to visitors. This usage frequently appears in clues related to social gatherings or a host's duties.
To Consider or Harbor (a thought/feeling): Less obvious, but crucial for crosswords! "Entertain" can also mean to hold a belief, idea, or feeling in one's mind. This is where many solvers get tripped up.

By keeping these different meanings in mind, you'll be better equipped to interpret the clue's intent and find the correct answer.

Common Synonyms and Their Crossword Clue Applications

Crossword setters love to use synonyms to disguise the main keyword. For "entertain," there's a rich pool of words they can draw from. Here are some of the most frequent, categorized by their typical letter count, which is a vital hint in crosswords.

Short & Sweet: 4-5 Letter Crossword Clues for Entertain

Often, the shortest answers are the trickiest because every letter counts.

HOST (4 letters): This is a very common answer when the clue relates to receiving guests. For example, "Entertain, as guests" might lead to HOST.
AMUSE (5 letters): A frequent synonym for making someone laugh or providing enjoyment. Clues like "Make laugh" or "Keep from being bored" often point to AMUSE.
TREAT (5 letters): Can imply providing food, drink, or general pleasure. "Entertain lavishly" could be a clue for TREAT.
FETE (4 letters): To honor or entertain lavishly. Often seen in clues like "Entertain royally".
DINE (4 letters): To provide a meal for, often implying entertainment alongside food.

Mid-Length Marvels: 6-7 Letter Entertain Crossword Clues

These answers offer a bit more room for variation and specific contexts.

REGALE (6 letters): To entertain lavishly with food, drink, or stories. This is a classic crossword answer for "entertain". Clues might include "Entertain with stories" or "Provide with choice food".
DIVERT (6 letters): To amuse or distract. Clues might be "Amuse, divert" or "Distract".
PLEASE (6 letters): To give pleasure or satisfaction to. A direct synonym for a common aspect of entertaining.
RECEIVE (7 letters): Directly related to the "host" meaning of entertain. "Entertain guests" or "Welcome" can point to RECEIVE.
DELIGHT (7 letters): To please greatly. Similar to AMUSE but often implies a stronger positive emotion.
CHERISH (7 letters): This leans into the "harbor a thought" meaning. "Entertain a notion" or "Hold dear" could be clues for CHERISH.

Longer Shots: 8+ Letter Crossword Clues for Entertain

While less common for the direct verb "entertain," these longer answers often appear when the clue hints at a more specific or elaborate form of entertainment, or the "consider/harbor" meaning.

DISTRACT (8 letters): To draw attention away, often by amusing. "Entertain, or draw attention away".
HAVEOVER (8 letters): To host at one's home.
ACCOMMODATE (11 letters): To provide lodging or space for, implying hosting.
EXHILARATE (10 letters): To make very happy or animated; a strong form of entertaining.

Strategies for Cracking "Entertain" Clues

Solving crossword clues for entertain isn't just about knowing synonyms; it's about applying smart solving techniques.

Match the Part of Speech and Tense: This is a golden rule in crosswords. If the clue is a verb in the past tense (e.g., "Entertained"), the answer will also be a past tense verb (e.g., AMUSED, REGALED). If the clue is a noun (e.g., "Entertainment"), the answer will be a noun (e.g., AMUSEMENT).
Check the Letter Count: Always match the number of letters in the answer grid to your potential solution. This is your most reliable filter.
Context is King: Look for other words in the clue that provide hints.
- "Entertain a thought" clearly points away from hosting and towards considering (e.g., HARBOR, NURSE, BROOK).
- "Entertain guests" or "Entertain at home" will likely lead to HOST or RECEIVE.
- "Entertain with stories" or "Entertain royally" often means REGALE.
Beware of Puns and Wordplay: Sometimes, a question mark at the end of a clue indicates wordplay or a pun, meaning the clue shouldn't be taken literally. While less common for a direct verb like "entertain," it's always good to be aware.
Fill in Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck on an "entertain" clue, try solving intersecting words first. Even one letter can unlock the solution.

Real-World Examples: Solving "Entertain" Clues

Let's put these strategies into practice with a few hypothetical entertain crossword puzzles:

Clue: Amuse, 5 letters
- Solution: AMUSE. This is a direct synonym and matches the letter count perfectly.
Clue: Host a party, 4 letters
- Solution: HOST. The context "a party" strongly suggests the meaning of hosting.
Clue: Regale, 6 letters
- Solution: ENTERTAIN. Sometimes, "entertain" itself is the answer to a synonym clue.
Clue: Consider a notion, 6 letters
- Solution: HARBOR. This taps into the less common meaning of "entertain" – to hold a thought.
Clue: Divert, 6 letters
- Solution: DIVERT. Again, "entertain" can be clued by its own synonym.

Conclusion

Solving crossword clues for entertain becomes much easier once you understand its multifaceted nature. By familiarizing yourself with its various synonyms like AMUSE, HOST, REGALE, DIVERT, and even words that imply holding a thought like HARBOR, you'll be well on your way to conquering these clues. Remember to always pay attention to the letter count, the part of speech, and the specific context provided in the clue.

What's your go-to strategy when you encounter a tricky "entertain" clue? Share your tips and favorite "entertain" solutions in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common answers for "Entertain" in crosswords?

The most common answers for "Entertain" in crosswords typically include AMUSE (5 letters), REGALE (6 letters), DIVERT (6 letters), HOST (4 letters), and TREAT (5 letters).

How can the number of letters help solve "Entertain" clues?

The number of letters is a crucial hint. Once you've identified a potential synonym for "entertain," checking if its letter count matches the spaces in the puzzle can quickly confirm or rule out your guess. For example, if the clue is "Entertain" and you have 5 spaces, AMUSE is a strong candidate.

Does "Entertain" always mean to amuse people in crosswords?

No, "Entertain" does not always mean to amuse people. In crosswords, it can also mean to host or receive guests (e.g., HOST, RECEIVE) or to consider or harbor a thought or feeling (e.g., HARBOR, CHERISH). Always consider the full context of the clue.

What should I do if an "Entertain" clue has a question mark?

A question mark at the end of a crossword clue usually indicates that the clue involves wordplay, a pun, or is not to be taken literally. For "Entertain," this might suggest a more indirect or tricky answer, so think outside the box and consider alternative meanings or common phrases.