amphitheater
UK: ˈæmfɪθiːətə | US: ˈæmfɪθiːətər
n. a large, open-air venue with tiered seating around a central stage or arena, used for public spectacles, performances, or sports events.
The word "amphitheater" originates from Greek amphi- (meaning "around" or "on both sides") and theatron (meaning "place for viewing"). Unlike a traditional theater, which has a semicircular seating arrangement, an amphitheater features seating encircling the performance area, emphasizing its "all-around" design. The term was adopted into Latin as amphitheatrum, later evolving into Middle French amphithéâtre before entering English. The structure reflects the word's logic—combining spatial orientation (amphi-) with its function (theater).
The Colosseum in Rome is the most famous ancient amphitheater.
Modern amphitheaters often host concerts and outdoor events.
The university built a new amphitheater for graduation ceremonies.
Gladiators fought in the amphitheater to entertain crowds.
The natural amphitheater in the valley provided perfect acoustics.