- Theatre
- Theater The"a*ter, Theatre The"a*tre, n. [F. th['e][^a]tre,
L. theatrum, Gr. ?, fr. ? to see, view; cf. Skr. dhy[=a] 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]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.