01 n. The space in a theater between the stage and the audience; -- originally appropriated by the Greeks to the chorus and its evolutions, after…
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1.
The space in a theater between the stage and the audience; -- originally appropriated by the Greeks to the chorus and its evolutions, afterward by the Romans to persons of distinction, and by the moderns to a band of instrumental musicians. Now commonly called orchestra pit, to distinguish it from the section of the main floor occupied by spectators. Also: orchestra pit
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2.
The space in the main floor of a theater in which the audience sits; also, the forward spectator section of the main floor, in distinction from the parterre, which is the rear section of the main floor.
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3.
The place in any public hall appropriated to a band of instrumental musicians.
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4.
Loosely: A band of instrumental musicians performing in a theater, concert hall, or other place of public amusement.(Mus.)
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5.
The instruments employed by a full band, collectively; as, an orchestra of forty stringed instruments, with proper complement of wind instruments.(Mus.)