Rotunda: meaning, definitions and examples

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rotunda

[rəˈtʌndə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

architectural feature

A rotunda is a circular building or room, typically with a dome. It is often used as a meeting place or ceremonial space.

Synonyms

circular room, dome, round building.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rotunda	Used to describe a large, round room or building, often with a dome. It is generally related to classical or grand architecture. We visited the rotunda in the Capitol, which was adorned with beautiful murals. The university's main library has an impressive rotunda.
dome	Best used when referring to a rounded roof or ceiling structure, often hemispherical or rounded, that typically covers a building or a room. The dome of the observatory provides a stunning view of the night sky. The church's dome is visible from several miles away.
round building	Describes any building that has a circular or round shape. This term is straightforward and can apply to both modern and traditional architecture. The new museum is a round building designed by a famous architect. They decided to build a round building to maximize space efficiency.
circular room	Refers to any room that has a circular shape. It is a more straightforward term and can be used for various types of circular indoor spaces. The meeting was held in a circular room to ensure everyone could see each other. Their house features a unique circular room with panoramic windows.

Examples of usage

The rotunda of the Capitol building in Washington, D.C., is an iconic symbol of American democracy.
The museum's rotunda houses a stunning collection of sculptures and paintings.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

academic setting

In some universities, a rotunda refers to a central circular area that may be used for gatherings, exhibitions, or as a symbolic focal point.

Synonyms

central area, gathering space, symbolic focal point.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rotunda	Refers to a large, circular room, usually with a domed ceiling, often found in important public buildings or institutions like museums, government buildings, or capitol buildings. Typically used in architectural and formal contexts. The library's rotunda is surrounded by thousands of bookshelves and a beautiful stained-glass ceiling. Visitors admire the grand rotunda at the capitol building, where historical artifacts are displayed.
central area	Describes a main, central part of a space or building. Can be used in various contexts, including casual conversations, interior design, or architectural descriptions. The central area of the mall features a large fountain and seating for shoppers to relax. In the central area of the living room, we placed a cozy rug and a coffee table.
gathering space	Describes any area designed for people to come together, often in a casual or social context. Frequently used when discussing community centers, offices, or homes. The community center has a large gathering space for events and meetings. We designed the backyard to serve as a gathering space for family and friends during summer.
symbolic focal point	Refers to an element or area that is designed to attract attention and hold symbolic significance, often in more formal or ceremonial contexts. Commonly used in discussions about design, architecture, or cultural settings. The statue in the plaza acts as a symbolic focal point for the city's history and culture. In the memorial park, the eternal flame serves as a symbolic focal point for visitors to reflect upon.

Examples of usage

The university's rotunda is a popular spot for students to meet and study.
The graduation ceremony took place in the grand rotunda of the campus.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Latin 'rotundus', meaning 'round'.
In architecture, it specifically refers to rooms or buildings having a circular plan.
It was first commonly used in English in the 17th century to describe large halls.

Architecture

Famous examples include the Pantheon in Rome, known for its impressive dome.
Many rotundas serve as public buildings, often for government or cultural purposes.
The rotunda's shape often enhances acoustics, making it popular for places of gathering.

History

Renaissance architects revived the concept, inspired by ancient Roman structures.
In America, the Capitol Building features a famous rotunda that includes significant artworks.
Some ancient structures, like the tholos in Greece, were early forms of rotundas.

Art

Rotundas often serve as galleries or exhibition spaces, showcasing sculptures or installations.
The circular design allows for a unique approach to displaying artwork, providing a 360-degree view.
Famous rotunda paintings, like those in the U.S. Capitol, often depict historical events.

Pop Culture

Rotundas often feature in films and media as settings for dramatic gatherings or important events.
They symbolize openness and inclusivity in design, often depicted in utopian city designs.
In video games, rotundas can be imaginative spaces for characters to interact or make decisions.

Translations

Translations of the word "rotunda" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rotunda

🇮🇳 गोलगुम्बद

🇩🇪 Rotunde

🇮🇩 rotunda

🇺🇦 ротонда

🇵🇱 rotunda

🇯🇵 ロトンダ (rotonda)

🇫🇷 rotonde

🇪🇸 rotonda

🇹🇷 rotonda

🇰🇷 로툰다 (rotunda)

🇸🇦 روتوندا

🇨🇿 rotunda

🇸🇰 rotunda

🇨🇳 圆形大厅 (yuán xíng dà tīng)

🇸🇮 rotunda

🇮🇸 rotunda

🇰🇿 ротонда

🇬🇪 როტუნდას (rotundas)

🇦🇿 rotunda

🇲🇽 rotonda

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,677, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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25674 fervid
25675 earldom
25676 haughtily
25677 rotunda
25678 baud
25679 squirming
25680 anneal
...