Roundelay: meaning, definitions and examples

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roundelay

 

[ ˈraʊndəleɪ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

music form

A roundelay is a type of poetic or musical composition characterized by a recurring refrain or repeated phrase. It often involves a cyclical structure that creates an engaging and lyrical quality, making it popular in both music and poetry.

Synonyms

chorus, refrain, round.

Examples of usage

  • The roundelay echoed through the hall.
  • She sang a beautiful roundelay at the concert.
  • The children danced to the roundelay in the garden.

Translations

Translations of the word "roundelay" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dança em círculo

🇮🇳 गोल चक्कर

🇩🇪 Rundtanz

🇮🇩 tarian melingkar

🇺🇦 круговий танець

🇵🇱 taniec okrągły

🇯🇵 円形の踊り

🇫🇷 danse en rond

🇪🇸 baile en círculo

🇹🇷 daire dansı

🇰🇷 원형 춤

🇸🇦 رقصة دائرية

🇨🇿 kruhový tanec

🇸🇰 kruhový tanec

🇨🇳 圆形舞蹈

🇸🇮 krožni ples

🇮🇸 hringdans

🇰🇿 шеңбер биі

🇬🇪 ცირკულარული ცეკვა

🇦🇿 dairəvi rəqs

🇲🇽 baile en círculo

Etymology

The word 'roundelay' dates back to the late Middle Ages and is derived from the combination of 'round' and the suffix '-elay', which relates to laying or placing. It is believed to have originated from the practice of singing or reciting verses in a circular or repeating format, which allowed for communal participation. In the context of music, the term encapsulates the idea of a refrain that circles back to a central theme, creating a sense of unity and continuity. The term has been employed in various musical and poetic traditions, highlighting its versatility and enduring appeal. Over the centuries, roundelays have been used in folk music, classical compositions, and even modern songs, showcasing their lasting impact on the arts.