theatre

UK: ˈθɪətə | US: ˈθiːətər

Definition
  1. n. a building or outdoor area where plays and other dramatic performances are staged

  2. n. the activity or profession of acting in, producing, or directing plays

  3. n. a region or area of activity (e.g., "the Pacific theatre of war")

Structure
theat <see, watch>re <noun suffix>theat <see, watch>re <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "theatre" traces back to Greek theatron, meaning "a place for viewing." It evolved through Latin theatrum and Old French theatre, retaining its core idea of a space for spectacles. The Greek root thea (to see) also appears in "theory" (mental viewing) and "theology" (study of divine observation). The suffix -re reflects Latin and French influences, solidifying its modern spelling.

Examples
  1. The Globe Theatre premiered many of Shakespeare’s plays.

  2. She studied theatre at university and became a director.

  3. The hospital operates in the theatre of emergency medicine daily.

  4. Ancient Greek theatres were designed with remarkable acoustics.

  5. The political scandal unfolded like a drama on the public theatre.