WordValerotunda
a round building or hall, usually domed
In more detail
1. (noun) a round building with a dome-shaped roof
2. (noun) a large circular room or hall, especially inside a building
Examples
- 1. The rotunda is one of the most famous features of the Capitol building.
- 2. The hotel's rotunda has a beautiful painted ceiling and marble floor.
How to use rotunda
Rotunda refers to a distinctive architectural feature—either an entire round building or a prominent circular interior space, typically in civic, religious, or monumental buildings. It often implies classical or neoclassical design with a dome. The term is primarily used in formal architectural or historical contexts.
Common phrases
- rotunda of the Capitol
- domed rotunda
- grand rotunda
- the rotunda entrance
- ornate rotunda
Synonyms
circular building · dome · round hall · circular chamber · cupola
Word family
rotundal (adjective, rare) · rotundity (noun, referring to roundness)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse rotunda with rotund (meaning round/plump). While both derive from Latin rotundus, rotunda is specifically architectural; rotund describes shape in general or a person's build.
Save this word in WordVale and it comes back for review right before you'd forget it — with pronunciation, real examples, and optional translations. One purchase, no subscription.
Get WordValeFREE 7-DAY TRIAL · iPHONE & iPAD