Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Theatre
{
, The′a-ter
,The′a-tre
}Noun.
[F.
théâtre
, L. theatrum
, Gr. [GREEK], fr. [GREEK] to see, view; cf. Skr. dhyā
to meditate, think. Cf. Theory
.] 1.
An edifice in which dramatic performances or spectacles are exhibited for the amusement of spectators; anciently uncovered, except the stage, but in modern times roofed.
2.
Any room adapted to the exhibition of any performances before an assembly, as public lectures, scholastic exercises, anatomical demonstrations, surgical operations, etc.
3.
That which resembles a theater in form, use, or the like; a place rising by steps or gradations, like the seats of a theater.
Burns.
Shade above shade, a woody
Of stateliest view.
theater
Of stateliest view.
Milton.
4.
A sphere or scheme of operation.
[Obs.]
For if a man can be partaker of God’s
theater
, he shall likewise be partaker of God's rest. Bacon.
5.
A place or region where great events are enacted;
as, the
. theater
of warWebster 1828 Edition
Theatre
THE'ATRE
,Noun.
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.