arena: [17] The original sense of Latin (h)arēna was ‘sand’ (hence the English technical term arenaceous ‘sandy’ [17]). The central, ‘stage’ area of classical amphitheatres, where contests were held, was covered with sand (to soak up the contestants’ blood) and so by metaphorical extension arēna became the term for this central area, and hence for any enclosed place used for contests. The word may ultimately be of Etruscan origin.
arena (n.)
1620s, "place of combat," from Latin harena "place of combat," originally "sand, sandy place," perhaps from Etruscan. The central stages of Roman amphitheaters were strewn with sand to soak up the blood.
实用例句
1. A 20,000-seat arena with a retractable roof is planned.
一个有两万个座位、带可开合顶棚的体育场正在规划中。
来自柯林斯例句
2. Oil speculation proved a natural arena for his skills.
在石油业中进行投机活动对他来说游刃有余。
来自柯林斯例句
3. The competitors cantered into the arena to conclude the closing ceremony.