Main Entry: or·ches·tra

Pronunciation: \ˈȯr-kəs-trə, -ˌkes-\

Function: noun

Etymology: Latin, from Greek orchēstra, from orcheisthai to dance; perhaps akin to Sanskrit ṛghāyati he trembles, he rages

Date: 1606

1 a : the circular space used by the chorus in front of the proscenium in an ancient Greek theater b : a corresponding semicircular space in a Roman theater used for seating important persons
2 a : the space in front of the stage in a modern theater that is used by an orchestra b : the forward section of seats on the main floor of a theater c : the main floor of a theater
3 : a group of musicians including especially string players organized to perform ensemble music — compare band