Definition of roundel

The word "roundel" in its modern usage refers to a type of poetic form that follows a specific structure, typically consisting of three lines with a strict rhyme scheme. The origins of the term "roundel" can be traced back to medieval times and a completely different context. In medieval English, "roundel" was used as a term for a shade or color produced by mixing red and blue pigments, often resulting in a reddish-purple hue. The root of the word is believed to be Old French "rondegle," which in turn comes from the Latin "rondex," meaning "roundly." It's unclear how the term "roundel" came to be associated with poetry, but some experts suggest it may have originated from the use of roundel shapes in illuminated manuscripts, which served as decorative frames around text and images. These roundel shapes, with their curved, almost circular forms, may have inspired poets to create a similar type of textual form. Regardless of its origins, the contemporary use of "roundel" in poetry describes a concise and structured form that is often associated with personal or reflective themes. With its strict rhyme scheme and three-line structure, the roundel allows poets to condense their thoughts and explore complex emotions within a relatively small space.