/rown"dl/ , n.
1. something round or circular.
2. a small, round pane or window.
3. a decorative plate, panel, tablet, or the like, round in form.
4. Also, rondel . Theat. a round piece of colored gelatin or glass placed over stage lights as a color medium to obtain lighting effects.
5. Armor.
a. a metal disk that protects the armpit.
b. a metal disk on a hafted weapon or a dagger to protect the hand.
6. Heraldry. a small circular charge.
7. Pros.
a. a rondel or rondeau.
b. a modification of the rondeau, consisting of nine lines with two refrains.
8. a round dance.
[ 1250-1300; ME roundele, rundel ( le ) rondel, deriv. of rond ROUND 1 (adj.) ]