In a gladiatorial context, how is the thumbs-down signal generally interpreted?

In the context of gladiatorial combat in ancient Rome, the thumbs-down signal is generally interpreted as a way to signal a kill or the death of the defeated gladiator. This interpretation stems from historical accounts and artistic representations that suggest that a gesture resembling the turning of the thumb or a downward motion indicated that the crowd or the editor (a person who organized the games) wished for the death of the losing gladiator.

Though the nuances of signals can be debated, the common understanding is that thumbs-down was not a signal for mercy or sparing the opponent's life; rather, it was an affirmation of the brutal nature of the spectacle and the finality of a gladiator's defeat in the arena. This interpretation contrasts with the notion of mercy, which was typically represented by a different gesture or signal, indicating a desire to spare the defeated gladiator. Thus, the thumbs-down gesture reinforced the violent and entertaining aspects of gladiatorial games, where the fate of the gladiator often depended on the mood of the crowd and the decisions of the organizers.