noun / proper noun
coliseum
kah-luh-SEE-um/ˌkɑːləˈsiːəm/
A large arena for public performances and contests.
Spectators fill the coliseum’s broad tiers around the open field.
Etymology
Latin colosseus, “gigantic,” gave Rome’s amphitheater its later name, perhaps referring to Nero’s colossal statue nearby. That building’s name became a general term for a large public arena.
In context
the last time we went to see Southern California play UCLA you wouldn't pay a dollar to park near the Coliseum
More examples
- The band performs at the coliseum on Friday.
- Both coliseums have enough seating for the graduation ceremony.
- The ancient Coliseum in Rome hosted contests before enormous crowds.
Forms
coliseum · coliseums
Similar words
- arena
- Can mean the central performance space, not just the building.
- stadium
- Usually emphasizes a sports field surrounded by spectator seating.
- amphitheater
- Emphasizes rising tiers of seats around a central performance area.