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.
The King James Bible has stood its ground for nearly 400 years. However, during that time the English language has changed, and with it the meanings of some words it used. Here are more than 6,500 words whose definitions have changed since 1611.Wikipedia
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