THE'ATRE, n. L. theatrum Gr. to see.
1. Among the ancients, an edifice in which spectacles or shows were exhibited for the amusement of spectators.
2. In modern times, a house for the exhibition of dramatic performances, as tragedies, comedies and farces a play-house comprehending the stage, the pit, the boxes, galleries and orchester.
3. Among the Italians, an assemblage of buildings, which by a happy disposition and elevation, represents an agreeable scene to the eye.
4. A place rising by steps or gradations like the seats of a theater.
Shade above shade, a woody theater
Of stateliest view--
5. A place of action or exhibition as the theater of the world.
6. A building for the exhibition of scholastic exercises, as at Oxford, or for other exhibitions.
Anatomical theater, a hall with several rows of seats, disposed in the manner of an amphitheater, and a table turning on a pivot in the middle, for anatomical demonstrations.