Redounding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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redounding

[rษชหˆdaสŠndษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

general use

Redounding refers to the act of causing something to have an effect or consequence, often in a positive manner. This term is frequently used to describe how efforts or actions can return benefits, reflect upon someone, or result in a larger outcome. In a broader sense, it implies that the actions of an individual can have far-reaching impacts, extending beyond the immediate situation. This term is commonly found in discussions related to personal achievements, outcomes of actions, or how certain deeds can benefit a community or group.

Synonyms

benefit, contribute, impact, resonate.

Examples of usage

  • His generosity redounded to his reputation.
  • The team's hard work redounded in their victory.
  • Her efforts in the community work redounded to success for many.
  • The investment in education redounded to improved job opportunities.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Shakespeare used 'redounding' to reflect themes of consequence and the impact of actions in plays like 'Richard II'.
  • In poetry, the concept often arises, emphasizing how actions and attributes resonate through time.
  • Contemporary authors may use the term to highlight how a character's choices come back to shape their fate.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers discuss redounding in moral contexts, illustrating how ethical actions create positive ripples in society.
  • The idea relates to the concept of karma, where actions eventually have consequences that influence one's outcome.
  • Discussions in virtue ethics focus on how noble actions lead to a greater good, emphasizing benefits that 'redound' on society.

Pop Culture

  • In social media, a good deed can redound through shares and likes, amplifying kindness beyond its original context.
  • Popular songs often talk about love and how it redounds between partners, reciprocating emotions and actions.
  • Television shows depict how an act of kindness eventually redounds to surprise rewards for the giver.

Psychology

  • The concept of redounding plays a role in social psychology, illustrating how our actions affect our reputation and relationships.
  • Reciprocity effects are linked to redounding, showing how positive actions can lead back to the original benefactor.
  • Understanding emotional contagion explains how feelings can redound among groups, making happiness or sadness contagious.

Origin of 'redounding'

Main points about word origin

  • This word comes from the Latin 'redundare', meaning 'to overflow', which indicates a strong outward effect.
  • It evolved through Old French before entering the English language, showcasing its long history.
  • The prefix 're-' means 'again', while 'dound' relates to 'sound' or 'abound', hinting at a repeated emphasis.

The term 'redound' has its roots in the Latin verb 'refundere', which means 'to flow back'. Its etymological journey includes the Old French 'redonder', stemming from the same Latin roots. In English, it was first recorded in the late 14th century, initially conveying a sense of overflowing or returning to a source. Over the centuries, the meaning of redound evolved to represent not only a physical flow but also metaphorical implications concerning actions and their consequences. In modern usage, the word often emphasizes how one's actions reverberate through consequences, either reflecting positively or negatively on the doer. It maintains a somewhat formal tone and is used in literary and ceremonial contexts to highlight the significance of deeds and their broader implications.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,325, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.