arena

American  

[uh-ree-nuh] / əˈri nə /

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.

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arena British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of arena

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

Example Sentences

In his fourth defence of the world title, Ball - who left the arena without giving a post-fight interview - suffered the first defeat of his professional career, having previously gone 24 fights unbeaten with one draw.

From BBC

Later on Saturday, the USA's world champion ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates took to the arena to pull the defending champions further ahead after the free dance.

From Barron's

The arena announcer further pumps up the audience.

From Los Angeles Times

The form on the Test arena has been accompanied by a reorganisation of the domestic game that has opened old wounds and inflicted fresh ones, with no resolution in sight.

From BBC

The main business took place in the arena.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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