What does "pollice verso" refer to in the context of gladiatorial combat?

The phrase "pollice verso" translates to "with turned thumb" in Latin and is most commonly associated with the signaling method used during gladiatorial games in ancient Rome. Traditionally, it indicated the fate of a defeated gladiator, where the gesture was made to either spare or condemn the combatant. The interpretation of this gesture varied; some sources suggest that a thumb-up symbolized mercy, while a thumbs-down could imply death, though it is debated among historians.

In the context of gladiatorial combat, this gesture would be crucial as it directly influenced the decision of whether a gladiator would live or die after a match. The interpretation and ritual surrounding "pollice verso" reflect the broader cultural practices associated with gladiators and entertainment in Roman society.