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 persons2 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 theater3: a group of musicians including especially string players organized to perform ensemble music — compare band