CIRCENSIAN GAMES, a general term under which was comprehended all combats exhibited in the Roman circus, in imitation of the Olympic games in Greece. Most of the feasts of the Romans were accompanied with Cir-
censian games; and the magistrates and other officers of the republic frequently presented the people with these exhibitions in order to procure their favour. The great games (Ludi Romani or Magni) were held during several days from the 4th to the 12th of September. See Circus.