Arena \A*re"na\, n.; pl. E. Arenas; L. Aren[ae]. [L. arena, harena, sand, a sandy place.]

1. (Rom. Antiq.) The area in the central part of an amphitheater, in which the gladiators fought and other shows were exhibited; -- so called because it was covered with sand.

2. Any place of public contest or exertion; any sphere of action; as, the arenaof debate; the arena of life.

3. (Med.) ``Sand'' or ``gravel'' in the kidneys.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)