arena

[uh-ree-nuh]

noun

1. the oval space in the center of a Roman amphitheater for gladiatorial combats or other performances.

2. a central stage, ring, area, or the like, used for sports or other forms of entertainment, surrounded by seats for spectators.

   a boxing arena; a circus arena.

3. a building housing an arena.

4. a field of conflict, activity, or endeavor.

   the arena of politics.

arena

/ əˈriːnə /

noun

1. 1. an enclosure or platform, usually surrounded by seats on all sides, in which sports events, contests, entertainments, etc, take place

      a boxing arena

   2. ( as modifier )

      arena stage

2. the central area of an ancient Roman amphitheatre, in which gladiatorial contests and other spectacles were held

3. a sphere or scene of conflict or intense activity

   the political arena

Word History and Origins

Origin of arena¹

1620–30; < Latin ( h ) arēna sand, sandy place, area sanded for combat

Word History and Origins

Origin of arena¹

C17: from Latin harēna sand, place where sand was strewn for the combats

Example Sentences

The car parking is on grassland and some car parks are a 20-minute walk from the arena.

From BBC

The singer-songwriter will only play two dates in the UK on the tour, taking to the indoor arena at the Coventry Building Society Arena on 5 December and Manchester's Co-op Live on 7 December.

From BBC

It was in the midst of winter — if you can even call it that in L.A. — and the arena was packed.

From Los Angeles Times

“In the arenas, I hear our sound and think, ‘Wow, this is much, much bigger than it’s ever been.’”

From Los Angeles Times

Six field events took place in a temporary arena in the city centre on Wednesday, before the remaining 26 trophies were decided at the Letzigrund Stadium.

From BBC

Related Words

• field 
• gym 
• gymnasium 
• park 
• ring 
• rink 
• square 
• stadium 
• stage