{ } n. [ L. amphitheatrum, fr. Gr. &unr_;; 'amfi` + &unr_; theater: cf. F. amphithéâtre. See Theater. ] 1. An oval or circular building with rising tiers of seats about an open space called the arena. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ The Romans first constructed amphitheaters for combats of gladiators and wild beasts. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Anything resembling an amphitheater in form; as, a level surrounded by rising slopes or hills, or a rising gallery in a theater. [ 1913 Webster ]

{ } n. [ F. théâtre, L. theatrum, Gr. &unr_;, fr. &unr_; to see, view; cf. Skr. dhyā to meditate, think. Cf. Theory. ] 1. An edifice in which dramatic performances or spectacles are exhibited for the amusement of spectators; anciently uncovered, except the stage, but in modern times roofed. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Any room adapted to the exhibition of any performances before an assembly, as public lectures, scholastic exercises, anatomical demonstrations, surgical operations, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. That which resembles a theater in form, use, or the like; a place rising by steps or gradations, like the seats of a theater. Burns. [ 1913 Webster ]

Shade above shade, a woody theater
Of stateliest view. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ]

4. A sphere or scheme of operation. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

For if a man can be partaker of God's theater, he shall likewise be partaker of God's rest. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ]

5. A place or region where great events are enacted; as, the theater of war. [ 1913 Webster ]