theater

1 a building or part of a building where movies are shown <there's still one theater in town that shows independent films> Synonyms cinema, playhouse Related Words nickelodeon; megaplex, multiplex, plex (or 'plex); art house, art theater, cinematheque; fleapit [British], grind house; drive-in

2 the public performance of plays <have been fascinated by the theater ever since I was a child> Synonyms dramatics, stage, drama (or theatre), theatricals, theatricsRelated Words boards; acting, footlights; entertainment, showbiz, show business; amusement, distraction, diversion, recreation; exhibition, pageant, pageantry, presentation, production, show, spectacle

3 a large room or building for enclosed public gatherings <the lecturer waited until the theater was full before beginning> Synonyms amphitheater, arena, auditorium, garden, hall (or theatre)Related Words arena theater, music hall, odeum, playhouse, theater-in-the-round; ballroom; lyceum; chamber, house, senate; cafetorium