ROUND TABLE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "round table" refers to a gathering or discussion in which all participants are considered equal and have an equal opportunity to express their opinions and ideas. Derived from the traditional King Arthur legend, in which King Arthur held meetings at a round table to create a sense of equality and unity among his knights, the concept of a round table has come to symbolize collaboration, inclusivity, and democratic decision-making.
In a more literal sense, a round table typically refers to a table with a circular or oval shape, enabling all participants to face each other and engage in an open and non-hierarchical discussion. The absence of a head or prominent position further emphasizes the equal importance of all participants. This format is often favored in meetings, conferences, or forums where multiple perspectives and ideas need to be considered and shared.
Round table discussions are often characterized by their cooperative and consensus-driven nature. Participants are encouraged to listen and communicate respectfully, fostering an environment conducive to active dialogue and understanding. The aim is to reach a collective understanding or agreement rather than a hierarchical decision-making process.
The term "round table" can also be used metaphorically to describe any informal gathering or discussion where participants have equal standing and contribute on an equal basis. It signifies the importance of diverse viewpoints, collaborative problem-solving, and fostering an environment of open dialogue and mutual respect.
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The table around which King Arthur and his knights sat.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ROUND TABLE
- eound table
- dound table
- found table
- tound table
- 5ound table
- 4ound table
- riund table
- rkund table
- rlund table
- rpund table
- r0und table
- r9und table
- roynd table
- rohnd table
- rojnd table
- roind table
- ro8nd table
- ro7nd table
- roubd table
Etymology of ROUND TABLE
The word "round table" originates from Old French. The term "table" comes from the Latin word "tabula", meaning board or plank, which was later borrowed by various Romance languages. In Old French, "tabule" evolved into "table", which referred to a flat surface or board used for meals or meetings.
The adjective "round" comes from the Old English word "hring", meaning circular or spherical. The concept of a circular table for gathering or dining also existed in various cultures before the term was coined in Old French.
The specific combination of "round" and "table" to refer to a group discussion or assembly of people originated from Arthurian legends. In these stories, King Arthur and his knights would gather at a round table, which represented equality and unity among the knights, as there was no head or foot of the table.
Similar spelling words for ROUND TABLE
- round-table conference,
- round-faced,
- round top,
- round-table discussion,
- round file,
- table round,
- round-table debate,
- round off,
- round bone,
- round up,
- roundtable,
- round the bend,
- DOUBLE RENT,
- round-backed,
- round double-tooth.
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