What are Roman baths commonly referred to as?

Roman baths are commonly referred to as "thermae." This term specifically describes the large public bath complexes that were a significant aspect of Roman culture, emphasizing both hygiene and social community. The construction and use of thermae were not limited to bathing; they also included areas for exercise, socializing, and relaxation.

By renaming these structures "thermae," it highlights their grandeur and complexity compared to smaller, more private bathhouses. While "bathhouses" might seem like a reasonable descriptor, it lacks the connotation of the expansive facilities and elaborate architecture that characterize Roman thermae. "Coliseums" and "palaces" refer to entirely different types of structures serving distinct purposes within Roman society, thus underscoring the unique cultural role of thermae in terms of public health and social interaction.