a|re|na

a|re|na «uh REE nuh», noun.

1. the space in an ancient Roman amphitheater in which contests or shows took place: »

Gladiators fought with lions in the arena at Rome.

2. a similar space, surrounded by seats, used today for contests or shows: »

a boxing arena.

SYNONYM(S): ring.

3. a large building in which indoor sports are played.

4. Figurative. any place of conflict and trial: »

The United Nations is an arena for world debate.

SYNONYM(S): lists.

5. Figurative. a field of endeavor: »

the political arena.

SYNONYM(S): area, sphere.

╂[< later variant of Latin harēna sand, sandy place (because the floor of Roman arenas was sand)]