What term is used to describe the starting gates in chariot racing?

The term used to describe the starting gates in chariot racing is "carceres." In ancient Roman chariot races, these were the structures from which the chariots would start. Each carcer would usually contain the charioteers and their teams, and upon the signal to start the race, the gates would open to allow the chariots to race forward. The construction and positioning of the carceres were crucial for the competition, as they determined the initial positioning of the chariots.

Understanding the terminology used in chariot racing helps to appreciate the complexity and organization of these events in ancient Rome, where such races were not only popular entertainment but also a significant aspect of social and political life. Other terms related to chariot racing like "spina," which refers to the central barrier of the racetrack, "missus," meaning a single lap or heat in the race, and "metae," which are the turning posts at the end of the track, all contribute to the overall knowledge of the sport but do not describe the starting gates themselves.