Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈam-fə-ˌthē-ət-ər/

Definitions

• A large, circular or oval open-air venue with seating arranged around a central area, typically used for performances, sports events, or public spectacles.
• A type of ancient Roman building used for gladiatorial games and public entertainments.

Usage Examples

• "The amphitheatre in the city hosted numerous outdoor performances, from plays to concerts."
• "The Colosseum in Rome is perhaps the most famous example of an ancient amphitheatre."

Etymology

From Greek "amphi-" meaning "on both sides" and "theatron" meaning "theater," referring to a theater with seating on all sides of the stage.

Synonyms

• Arena
• Coliseum
• Theater
• Auditorium

Antonyms

• Enclosed theater
• Indoor theater
• Cinema

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈam-fə-ˌthē-ət-ər/
• British English: /ˈam-fə-ˌthē-ət-ər/
• Australian English: /ˈam-fə-ˌthē-ət-ər/
• Indian English: /ˈam-fə-ˌthē-ət-ər/

Historical Usage

The amphitheatre is an ancient Roman architectural form used for public spectacles such as gladiatorial games, animal hunts, and drama performances. The design allowed for large audiences and optimal sightlines. The Colosseum in Rome is a prime example of an ancient amphitheatre. Over time, amphitheatres evolved and are now used for various public events, concerts, and theater performances worldwide.

Cultural Nuances

Amphitheatres hold significant cultural value, especially in ancient Roman and Greek societies where they served as venues for entertainment, politics, and social interaction. Modern amphitheatres continue this tradition, often hosting large-scale performances and community events, symbolizing public engagement and entertainment.

More Information

Amphitheatres are considered marvels of engineering and architecture. They were built with careful attention to acoustics, crowd control, and audience visibility. The most famous examples are the Colosseum in Rome and the Arena of Nîmes in France. Today, amphitheatres are often open-air structures designed for performances, festivals, and cultural events. While their form has adapted over centuries, their primary purpose of large-scale public entertainment has remained consistent.