Rondeau meaning

A rondeau is a form of poetry characterized by its repeated stanza structure and rhyme scheme.


Rondeau definitions

Word backwards uaednor
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ron-deau
Plural The plural of the word "rondeau" is "rondeaux."
Total letters 7
Vogais (4) o,e,a,u
Consonants (3) r,n,d

A rondeau is a form of French poetry that consists of fifteen lines written in iambic tetrameter and pentameter. It has a specific rhyme scheme and structure that sets it apart from other poetic forms. The rondeau originated in the 13th century and has been used by many famous poets throughout history.

Structure of a Rondeau

The rondeau follows a strict rhyme scheme and structure. The first few words or a phrase from the first line are repeated as a refrain at the end of the second and third stanzas. The rhyme scheme is ABAAABABABAA. The first line is repeated as the last line of the poem, giving it a circular quality.

Themes and Topics

Rondeaus can cover a wide range of themes and topics, from love and nature to politics and society. The form allows for creativity and expression within a set structure, making it a challenging yet rewarding poetic form to work with.

Key Characteristics

One of the key characteristics of a rondeau is its musical quality. The repetition of the refrain gives the poem a lyrical feel, almost like a song. This makes it a popular form for setting to music or performing orally.

Another important aspect of the rondeau is its brevity. With only fifteen lines, a poet must carefully choose their words to convey their message effectively within the constraints of the form.

Overall, the rondeau is a versatile and expressive form of poetry that has stood the test of time. Its unique structure and rhyme scheme challenge poets to think creatively within a set framework, resulting in engaging and memorable works of art.


Rondeau Examples

  1. She wrote a beautiful rondeau for her poetry class.
  2. The rondeau played softly in the background during the romantic dinner.
  3. He performed a rondeau on his violin at the concert.
  4. The rondeau was inspired by the beauty of the sunset.
  5. The rondeau echoed through the halls of the grand cathedral.
  6. The dancers gracefully moved to the rhythm of the rondeau.
  7. The rondeau was painted on a canvas, capturing the essence of spring.
  8. She hummed a familiar rondeau as she walked through the park.
  9. The rondeau brought tears to the eyes of those who listened.
  10. The melody of the rondeau lingered in the air long after it had ended.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 08/05/2024 - 00:50:36