THE'ATRE, noun [Latin 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.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI