Definition

1. Noun:
   • (Heraldry) A charge in the shape of a circle: In heraldry, a "roundel" is a circular emblem or device used on a coat of arms.
   • A circular piece of armor: A "roundel" can refer to a round piece of armor, historically used to protect a vulnerable joint like the armpit.
   • A form of poetry: A "roundel" is an English version of the rondeau, a short poem with a specific structure involving refrains.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Heraldry):
  • The family crest featured a blue roundel on a field of gold.
• Noun (Armor):
  • The knight's armor included a steel roundel to protect his underarm.
• Noun (Poetry):
  • She wrote a beautiful roundel in the style of Swinburne.

Advanced Usage

• In architectural contexts: A "roundel" can sometimes refer to a circular opening or a circular decorative panel in a building.
  • The stained glass roundel in the church window depicted a saint.

Variants and Related Words

• Roundelay (n): A simple song with a refrain; related to the poetic form.
• Rondel (n): A similar, often French, poetic form with 13 or 14 lines.

Synonyms

• Circle: A round plane figure.
• Disc: A flat, thin circular object.
• Medallion: A large medal or a circular decorative design.

Related Phrases

• No common phrasal verbs are directly associated with "roundel".

Related Idioms

• No common idioms are directly associated with "roundel".

Noun

1. (heraldry) a charge in the shape of a circle
   • a hollow roundel
2. round piece of armor plate that protects the armpit
3. English form of rondeau having three triplets with a refrain after the first and third