The
Latinized version of the
Greek "
stadion", this
Modern English word is now used exclusively to mean a
structure used to hold
spectators for
sporting events, featuring ascending rows of seats and sometimes
skyboxes.
Most
stadiums are large, open structures, although many consist of little more than a
track and a single
grandstand, and few very large ones
sport domes to keep out the weather. A smaller, roofed sporting
venue is more properly termed "
arena".