Definition of rotund

The word "rotund" originated in the late 16th century from the Latin word "rotundus," meaning "round" or "spherical." In Latin, the prefix "ro-" meant "round" or "rounded," and the suffix "-undus" indicated a noun of action. The Latin word "rotundus" was inherited by the early modern English language, where it was used to describe round or spherical objects. In English, the word "rotund" initially referred to an object specifically of political or cultural significance, such as a speaker's podium or a meeting hall. By extension, it came to apply to anything that is round and imposing, like a rotund belly or a rotund person. Over time, "rotund" has being used in various contexts, such as in architecture, music, and cuisine. In architecture, for example, "rotunda" was used to describe a round or domed structure, often used as a church, monument, or public building. In music, the word came to mean a round, or circular melody that is repeated by multiple voices or parts. In cuisine, a "rotund" melon refers to a spherical-shaped fruit, while a "rotund" cheese is a round-shaped cheese. Nowadays, "rotund" is employed in a figurative sense, meaning something that is not only round or spherical but also impressively full, substantial, or important. It is used to describe a person's character, for example, or a speaker's voice can be described as "rotund" if it is rich, resonant, and commanding. In summary, "rotund" originated from the Latin word "rotundus," meaning "round" or "spherical," and refers to any object or person that is round and impressive in shape, size, or significance.