noun - the part of a theatre, concert hall, or other public building where the audience sits
noun, American English - a large room or building used for public gatherings, performances, or lectures
noun - the action of showing something to be right or reasonable; a good reason or explanation for something
noun, literary - great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle
noun - a person or organization that puts money into financial schemes, property, or a business with the expectation of achieving a profit
noun, British English, informal - a day off work or school taken by someone who claims to be ill but actually is not