Circus Maximus

American  

[mak-suh-muhs] / ˈmæk sə məs /

noun

1. the great ancient Roman circus between the Palatine and Aventine hills.

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Circus Maximus British  

/ ˈmæksɪməs /

noun

1. an amphitheatre in Rome, used in ancient times for chariot races, public games, etc

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Example Sentences

In the Roman Empire, the games at the Circus Maximus were an amusement and a distraction, a token to the proles as a substitute for being able to exercise any political power.

From Salon • Aug. 24, 2025

Respighi’s evocations of gladiators at the Circus Maximus, of early Christian pilgrims and other scenes of ancient Roman life, seem a surprisingly odd epilogue to an all-American conductor’s storied career.

From Los Angeles Times • May 3, 2025

A summer show at Rome’s ancient Circus Maximus stadium site, for which Scott’s current tour is named, had locals reporting a possible earthquake.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 9, 2023

When Travis Scott asked Rome to make some noise at the Circus Maximus on Monday, Rome cheerfully complied.

From New York Times • Aug. 9, 2023

They had passed down the Vicus Tuscus, flown past the dark shadow of the lower end of the Circus Maximus.

From A Friend of Caesar A Tale of the Fall of the Roman Republic. Time, 50-47 B.C. by Davis, William Stearns