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

The arena is within walking distance of the Proper and right next to LA Live—grab a bite there before or after if you want to avoid arena prices.

From Salon

The White House certainly views space as another arena for the US to exert its dominance.

From BBC

Major banks, including JP Morgan, have started warning of potential problems in the $3 trillion private credit arena and are tightening lending, especially to some software companies.

From Barron's

Instead, a spokesperson pointed to public remarks Kotek made in support of public funding for the Blazers arena as the Legislature adjourned.

From Salon

She completed her first Hyrox with her son Stuart in just over 90 minutes before taking on the challenge on her own at London's Excel arena.

From BBC

Related Words

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