1. public baths in ancient Rome, typically large complexes with hot and cold pools
Usage: historical; plural form

Examples

• The Baths of Caracalla were among the largest thermae in ancient Rome.
• Roman citizens would visit the thermae for bathing and socializing.
• The thermae included hot rooms, cold pools, and exercise areas.
• Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of several thermae throughout the former Roman Empire.
• The wealthy Romans built elaborate private thermae in their villas.
• Public thermae served as important social centers in Roman cities.