Viihdyke

Viihdyke is a Finnish noun that refers to something that provides amusement, diversion, or a pastime. The term emphasizes the function of entertaining or passing the time pleasantly, rather than a formal or institutional form of entertainment.

Etymology and meaning notes: Viihdyke is formed from the verb viihdyttää, meaning “to entertain,” with the derivational suffix -dyke that denotes a means, instrument, or object related to the action. The word is used in more formal or literary contexts, and it often appears in discussions of culture, media, or leisure activities. It can be considered a synonym of viihde in some uses, but viihdyke tends to highlight the function of serving as a pastime or diversion.

Usage: Viihdyke can refer to activities, objects, or media that provide amusement. It is common in Finnish to describe television, books, games, or hobbies as viihdykkeitä or to speak of something as a viihdyke for a particular period or audience. Examples include statements such as, “Radio and television have been important viihdykkeit for many households,” and “Books can serve as viihdykkeitä during leisure time.”

See also: Viihde (entertainment), viihdyttää (to entertain), harrastus (hobby), vapaa-aika (free time).