The usage of "humor"

Question

Can the word "humor" be used in the sense of "to entertain"? Dictionaries use the word " to please" as synonym.

For example:

Does the first following sentence have the same meaning the second one?

I like to watch movies that humor me.

I like to watch movies that entertain me/ make me laugh.

A common phrase is "Don't humor me" when you want someone to be serious. — user3169, Commented Dec 7, 2017 at 5:48

joiedevivre · Accepted Answer · 2017-12-07 01:18:43Z

1

No. When used as a verb, humor means to indulge someone or put up with them. From Merriam-Webster:

To soothe or content (someone) by indulgence : to comply with the temperament or inclinations of

The only way to get along with him is to humor him.

I know you don't agree, but just humor me.

answered Dec 7, 2017 at 1:18

joiedevivre

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Therefore, can we say the first sentence does not make a sense much?
– Mrt
Commented Dec 7, 2017 at 1:23
No, it doesn't make that much sense, but I would understand that you had meant to say "I like to watch movies that are humorous" or "I like to watch movies that are full of humor."
– Nick
Commented Dec 7, 2017 at 1:26
If you tried to apply the word's legitimate usage to the first sentence, you might come up with an idea like, "I like movies that cater to my viewpoint, even when I suspect the movie makers don't really agree with me." But as Nicholas said, you'd probably just guess at a different meaning instead.
– joiedevivre
Commented Dec 7, 2017 at 1:30

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