Ancient Rome Vocabulary Terms

Amphitheater

A round arena where games, shows, or fights are held in the center.

Aqueduct

A bridge-like structure used to carry water from a distant source.

Assassinate

To kill someone suddenly for political reasons.

Dictator

One person with absolute power over the government.

Forum

The central place of a Roman city, designed for politics and business.

Omen

A sign from the gods about the future.

Senate

A council of elders from Rome’s leading families who vote on laws.

Colosseum

The largest amphitheater of Rome, famous for gladiator fights.

Latin

The language spoken by the Romans, named after the tribe they were from.

Pax Romana

Period of time when Rome was at peace and united for 200 years 27 BCE- 180 CE)

Republic

A system of government in which citizens elect leaders to make decisions.

Citizen’s Assembly

All citizens of the Roman Republic gathered together to elect the senate and the tribunes.

Consul

One of the two executive leaders of the Roman Republic, advised by the senate.

Tribune

Elected leaders who represent the plebeians, and had the power to veto any action of the senate.

Patrician

A member of the small class of wealthy families in Ancient Rome.

Plebeian

A large bulk of middle class citizens in Rome who were mostly shopkeepers, artisans, and peasants.