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 team announced Monday that Showtime-era coach Pat Riley will be the next Lakers legend to be honored with a statue on Star Plaza outside the arena.

From Los Angeles Times

WBO champion Billam-Smith was the first to make his way to the ring at the Venue arena, a stern look on his face as he completed a lap of the canvas with his arm raised.

From BBC

A long queue formed outside the arena two hours before the start.

From BBC

According to concert promoter Live Nation, the 2024 arena run was “met with incredible demand,” prompting the addition of shows in Paris and Dallas and two in São Paulo.

From Los Angeles Times

Hosting an Olympics and Paralympics, though not as complex or hazardous, nonetheless involves preparing dozens of stadiums and arenas, housing thousands of athletes and coordinating transportation throughout the region for a hectic two months.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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