Among the ancients, an edifice in which spectacles or shows were exhibited for the amusement of spectators.

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.

Among the Italians, an assemblage of buildings, which by a happy disposition and elevation, represents an agreeable scene to the eye.

A place rising by steps or gradations like the seats of a theater. Shade above shade, a woody theater' . Of stateliest view-- .

A place of action or exhibition; as the theater of the world.

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.