Which of the following describes the cold-water baths found in a Roman thermae?

The frigidarium is the term used to describe the cold-water baths found in a Roman thermae. In the context of the Roman bathing complex, the frigidarium served as a space for bathers to cool down after using hotter baths like the calidarium, which had warm or hot water. The frigidarium typically featured a large pool of cold water, providing a refreshing contrast to the heat experienced in other areas of the baths.

Understanding the role of the frigidarium within the thermes is essential for grasping the overall experience of bathing in ancient Rome. The baths were designed for social interaction, relaxation, and various temperatures that contributed to the wellness and hygiene practices of the time. The other terms have distinct meanings: the calidarium refers to a warm bath, the balneum indicates a smaller bathing space or bathhouse, and the palaestra serves as an exercise area, highlighting the multifunctional nature of Roman bathing complexes.