The word "rotundity" is spelled with the letter 'o' being pronounced as a short 'o' sound, represented in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ɑ/ or /ɒ/. The 'u' is pronounced as a long 'u' sound, represented in IPA as /u/. The 'nd' is pronounced as a blend of the /n/ and /d/ sounds. Finally, the 'ity' at the end is pronounced as /ɪti/. The word means roundness or plumpness, and is often used to describe physical characteristics or speech that is full-bodied or expansive.
Rotundity is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being round, plump, or circular in shape. It is often used to describe something that is characterized by a full or rounded figure. Rotundity can also convey the idea of being well-developed, hearty, or robust, particularly when describing a person's physical build.
In a literal sense, rotundity denotes spherical or globular shapes such as the roundness of a ball, a circle, or a sphere. It encompasses the completeness and evenness of such shapes, evoking a sense of symmetry and uniformity. This term can also be applied to objects with a curved or circular surface, emphasizing their smoothness or roundedness.
Figuratively, rotundity can describe a person who has a plump or portly figure, often connoting a sense of joviality, gaiety, or good-naturedness. It can be used to describe someone who possesses a round face, abdomen, or overall physique. This term is commonly employed to express a person's robustness, sound health, or vitality, as well as someone's jolly or approachable demeanor.
Furthermore, rotundity can also be used metaphorically to describe the circular, complete, or self-contained nature of an argument, reasoning process, or narrative structure. It implies that the discussion or narration is well-rounded, comprehensive, and lacking in notable omissions or deficiencies. In this context, rotundity highlights the completeness, coherence, and solidity of the subject matter being presented.
Roundness; sphericity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "rotundity" comes from the Latin word "rotunditas", which is derived from the Latin term "rotundus", meaning "round" or "circular". The suffix "-ity" is added to form a noun, indicating the state or quality of being round or spherical.