Definition

1. Noun:
   • A tool for rounding corners or edges: A "rounder" is a device or implement used to make corners or edges smooth and curved.
   • A dissolute person; usually a man who is morally unrestrained: A "rounder" is a person, typically a man, who leads a life of unrestrained indulgence in pleasure, often involving drinking and immoral behavior.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Tool):

  • The carpenter used a rounder to smooth the sharp edges of the wooden table.
  • This leather rounder is perfect for creating soft corners on your craft projects.

• Noun (Person):

  • In the old stories, he was described as a rounder who spent his nights in the taverns.
  • After inheriting the fortune, he lived the life of a rounder, neglecting all his responsibilities.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Literary Context: The term "rounder" to describe a dissolute person is now somewhat archaic and is often found in historical or literary contexts to evoke a specific character type from the past.
  • The novel's antagonist is a charming but unreliable rounder.

Variants and Related Words

• Round (verb): To make or become round in shape.
  • Round the edges with sandpaper.
• Rounded (adjective): Having a smooth, curved shape.
  • The sculpture had beautifully rounded forms.
• Dissolute (adjective): Lax in morals; licentious. (This is a synonym for the character sense of "rounder").
  • He led a dissolute life in his youth.

Synonyms

• For the tool: Edge smoother, radius tool, corner rounder.
• For the person: Rake, libertine, profligate, debauchee, wastrel.

Related Phrases

• Make the rounds: To visit a series of places or people. (Note: This phrase uses "rounds," not the noun "rounder").
  • The security guard makes the rounds every hour.
• Round of drinks: A set of drinks bought for a group. (Note: This phrase uses "round," not the noun "rounder").
  • He bought a round of drinks for everyone at the bar.

Noun

1. a tool for rounding corners or edges
2. a dissolute person; usually a man who is morally unrestrained