ˈam(p)fəˌ-, ˈaam-, ÷-mpə-, ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin amphitheatrum, from Greek amphitheatron, from amphi- + theatron theater — more at theater
1. : an oval, circular, or semicircular building with rising tiers of seats about a central open space used in ancient Rome for spectacles and contests
Marcus Aurelius could sit for hours in the amphitheater , bored and distrait … but with unmoved serenity — Agnes Repplier
2. : something felt to resemble an amphitheater:
a. : a large auditorium used especially for conventions, stock shows, sports events, and indoor circuses
an exposition held in the International Amphitheater in Chicago
b. : a large room (as in a hospital) with a rising gallery of seats from which doctors and medical students may observe surgical operations
c. : a semicircular rising gallery in a modern theater
d. : a land form characterized by steep slopes rising abruptly from a somewhat semicircular flat or gently sloping area
laid out the prisoners' camp in a sort of amphitheater among knolls — Kenneth Roberts
3. : a place of public contests or games : arena