palestra

gym

noun pah-LES-trah Rare

Origin: From Greek palaístra (wrestling school).

Also means

gymnasium

Usage Note

Palestra is the standard word for a gym or fitness centre and also for a school gymnasium. It derives from ancient Greek wrestling practice (palaístra). Andare in palestra (to go to the gym) uses in without an article, mirroring Italian usage with institutions: in palestra, a scuola, in ufficio. Do not use the article when saying you are going there.

Examples

"Vado in palestra tre volte a settimana."

Natural Translation

I go to the gym three times a week.

Literal Translation

I-go in gym three times a week.

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