What Is Entertaiment?

Entertaiment is a complex and often controversial phenomenon. It is a force that shapes culture and can be a source of pleasure, education, and even activism. Its familiar forms cross many different media and have a seemingly unlimited potential for creative remix. It can also be a powerful financial empire. However, entertainment can be harmful if not regulated and can become exploitative. It is a multifaceted, global industry that is sometimes difficult to define. The examples in this article, programmatically compiled from various sources online, are intended to illustrate current usage of the word entertaiment and do not represent the views of Merriam-Webster or its editors.