pos>n.; pl. E. Gymnasiums L. Gymnasia [ L., fr. Gr. gymna`sion, fr. gymna`zein to exercise (naked), fr. gymo`s naked. ] 1. A place or building where athletic exercises are performed; a school for gymnastics. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. A school for the higher branches of literature and science; a preparatory school for the university; -- used esp. of German schools of this kind. [ 1913 Webster ]
More like ordinary schools of gymnasia than universities. Hallam. [ 1913 Webster ]