stadium
UK: ˈsteɪdiəm | US: ˈsteɪdiəm
n. a large structure for sports events with tiered seating for spectators
n. (historical) a track or course for foot races in ancient Greece or Rome
n. (biology) a stage or phase in a developmental process
The word "stadium" traces back to Latin "stadium," borrowed from Greek "stadion," referring to a unit of length (about 185 meters) and the racecourse of that distance in ancient Greek athletic competitions. The Greek "stadion" likely derives from "stadios" (firm, steady), reflecting the fixed length of the track. Over time, the term expanded to denote the venue itself and later any large sports arena. The suffix "-ium" (Latin for "place") reinforces its function as a location.
The new football stadium can hold over 60,000 fans.
Ancient Olympia's stadium hosted the original Olympic Games.
The team celebrated their victory in the packed stadium.
The insect's life cycle includes a larval stadium.
Tickets for the concert at the stadium sold out in minutes.