'amusement' originates from French, specifically the word 'amuser,' where 'a-' meant 'to' and 'muser' meant 'to muse or ponder.'

'amuser' transformed into the English word 'amusement' during the 17th century, retaining its sense of entertainment and diversion.

Initially, it meant 'to divert or entertain,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.