{ Am′phi‐the″a‐ter, Am′phi‐the″a‐tre, } (�), n. [L. amphitheatrum, fr. Gr. �; � + � theater: cf. F. amphithéâtre. See Theater.] 1. An oval or circular building with rising tiers of seats about an open space called the arena.
☞ The Romans first constructed amphitheaters for combats of gladiators and wild beasts.
2. Anything resembling an amphitheater in form; as, a level surrounded by rising slopes or hills, or a rising gallery in a theater.