What does rondelle mean?
A rondelle is a small, flat, round piece of metal, especially a washer or a decorative disk. It may form part of a hinge, fastening, ornament, or piece of jewellery. The term is uncommon in contemporary English, so in everyday speech a word such as “washer,” “disc,” or “ring” will often be clearer. Its associations with small metal fittings and decorative objects give it a slightly technical or historical character. The word comes from French, in which it denotes a round or disc-shaped object. It should not be confused with “rondel,” a short poetic form built around a recurring refrain, or with the more familiar “roundel,” the same literary form. Because rondelle is uncommon, careful context can help readers interpret whether it refers to a functional washer-like component or an ornamental round plate.
nounA small, flat, round piece of metal, such as a washer or a decorative disk.
- A small, flat, round piece of metal, especially a washer or decorative disk.
"The hinge was secured with a thin brass rondelle."
"The jeweller set the stone in an ornate gold rondelle."
"A thin metal rondelle helps keep the components of the hinge in place."
The plural is formed by adding -s.
"Several small brass rondelles were fitted beneath the handle."
A rondelle is essentially a tiny round plate: the word entered English from French for a disc or washer.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does rondelle come from?
The English word comes from French rondelle, originally a diminutive of rond, meaning “round.” In French, it has been used for various round, flat objects, including a disc or washer. The English borrowing chiefly denotes a small round metal object, especially one used as a washer or decorative fitting.
How rondelle is actually used
The word is uncommon in modern general English and may sound formal, technical, or historical. In metalworking, its sense is close to that of a washer.
Easily confused with rondelle
A rondelle is a small round metal object, whereas a rondel is a short poem with a recurring refrain.