amphitheater

(am′fə t̸hē′ə tər)

noun

a round or oval building with an open space (arena) surrounded by rising rows of seats
a scene of conflict, competition, etc.; arena
a sloping gallery in a theater
a lecture hall with a sloping gallery, esp. one for observing surgical procedures in a medical school or hospital
a level place surrounded by rising ground

Origin: L amphitheatrum < Gr amphitheatron: see amphi- & theater

Related Forms:

See amphitheater in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

An oval or round structure having tiers of seats rising gradually outward from a central open space or arena.
An arena where contests and spectacles are held.
A level area surrounded by upward sloping ground.
An upper, sloping gallery with seats for spectators, as in a theater or operating room.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English amphitheatre

Origin: , from Latin amphitheātrum

Origin: , from Greek amphitheātron

Origin: : amphi-, amphi-

Origin: + theātron, theater; see theater

Related Forms: