Definition

1. Noun:
   • A roster or schedule listing names in a specific order for performing duties: A "rota" is a systematic list that shows the sequence in which individuals are assigned to tasks or responsibilities, often on a rotating basis.
   • (Roman Catholic Church) The supreme ecclesiastical tribunal: In this specific context, the "Rota" is the highest court of appeal for certain cases within the Roman Catholic Church's judicial system.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Roster):
  • The manager posted the cleaning rota on the staff noticeboard.
  • We use a weekly rota to ensure everyone takes a turn cooking dinner.
• Noun (Ecclesiastical Tribunal):
  • The case was referred to the Rota for a final decision.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on the rota": To be scheduled or listed to perform a duty.
  • I'm on the rota for night shift next week.
• "to draw up a rota": To create or prepare a schedule of duties.
  • We need to draw up a new rota for the volunteer drivers.

Variants and Related Words

• Rotate (verb): To take turns or to move in a sequence.
  • The team members rotate the leadership role each month.
• Rotation (noun): The action or system of taking turns.
  • The rotation of duties ensures fairness.

Synonyms

• Roster: A list of people's names and their assigned tasks or times.
• Schedule: A plan for carrying out tasks or events over a period.
• Timetable: A chart showing planned times or a sequence of events.

Related Phrases

• Duty rota: A schedule specifically for work assignments.
  • Check the duty rota to see when you're supervising.
• Staff rota: A roster for employees' working hours.
  • The staff rota for December is now available.

Notes on Meaning

The primary and most common meaning of "rota" in general English is the first definition: a list for rotating duties. The second definition is highly specialized and is typically capitalized ("Rota") when referring to the specific Catholic Church tribunal. In everyday usage, the word almost always refers to a schedule or roster.

Noun

1. a roster of names showing the order in which people should perform certain duties
2. (Roman Catholic Church) the supreme ecclesiastical tribunal for cases appealed to the Holy See from diocesan courts