Column Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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column
[ˈkɒləm ]
Definitions
data table
A vertical structure that is used to store or display information in rows and columns.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| column |
Typically used in architecture or structural engineering to describe a vertical support structure that holds up a building or roof. Also used in writing to refer to sections of a newspaper or magazine.
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| pillar |
Often used metaphorically to describe someone or something that is a strong supporter or an important member of a community or organization. Also used in architecture as a tall vertical structure.
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| post |
Used to refer to a fixed, vertical piece commonly employed in construction for fencing, signs, or as a support. Also used in online contexts to describe a message posted on social media or a forum.
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| shaft |
Generally used to describe a long, vertical passage, often found in settings such as elevators or mines. Can have negative connotations when referring to an unfair situation or treatment.
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Examples of usage
- The spreadsheet contains multiple columns with different types of data.
- Please add a new column to the table to include the additional information.
journalism
A regular article or feature in a newspaper or magazine, typically written by a particular person or concerning a particular topic.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| column |
Used in journalism to refer to a regular section in a newspaper or magazine, often written by the same person, covering a specific topic or area of interest.
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| article |
A general term used for any written work in newspapers, magazines, or online platforms, usually presenting news, research, opinions, or information.
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| piece |
A flexible term for any written work, whether short or long, that provides insight, opinion, or information. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
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| feature |
Refers to a detailed and in-depth piece of writing in journalism that focuses on a particular topic, issue, or person, often involving background research and storytelling.
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Examples of usage
- She writes a weekly column for the local newspaper.
- The sports column always covers the latest game results.
architecture
A supporting pillar or structure, typically cylindrical in shape, used to support the weight of a building or part of a building above it.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| column |
Usually refers to a vertical cylindrical structure that supports buildings or stands as a monument. It can also mean a section in a table or, in writing, a regular article in a newspaper or magazine.
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| pillar |
Describes a tall, vertical structure used for support or as a monument. It often symbolizes strength, stability, and support, and can be used metaphorically.
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| post |
Often refers to a sturdy piece of timber or metal set firmly in the ground to support something or act as a marker. It can also be used when talking about a position of duty or responsibility.
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| support |
Refers to any object, structure, or mechanism that bears the weight of something else, offering stability and reinforcement. Can also be used metaphorically for emotional or financial assistance.
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Examples of usage
- The ancient Greek temple had rows of columns supporting the roof.
- The modern skyscraper features sleek columns that add to its aesthetic appeal.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Architecture
- Columns have been a fundamental part of architectural design, especially in classical Greek and Roman styles, where they were used to support temples and public buildings.
- These structures can be categorized into three main styles: Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, each with distinct decorative elements.
- In modern architecture, columns are often made from materials like steel and concrete, which can provide strength along with a contemporary look.
Technology
- In computer programming and databases, a column organizes data within a table, making it easier to sort and filter information.
- Spreadsheet applications use columns to help users manage data visually, with each column typically representing a different variable.
- The concept of a column in graphic design allows for structured layouts, enhancing aesthetic appeal and readability.
Media
- In journalism, a column is a recurring feature in newspapers or magazines where a writer expresses opinions or shares insights on specific topics.
- Famous columnists throughout history have significantly influenced public opinion, ranging from political commentary to lifestyle advice.
- Some publications dedicate entire sections to columns, showcasing various viewpoints and fostering community discussions.
Mathematics
- In mathematics, especially in geometry, a column can refer to a vertical arrangement of objects or numbers, often seen in matrices.
- Columns in a dataset help with organization, allowing for easier calculations and analysis of relationships between data points.
- The concept of columns is essential in understanding coordinate planes where one axis represents the column's position.
Origin of 'column'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'column' comes from the Latin 'columna,' which means 'pillar' or 'support.'
- The same root can be found in other languages, such as 'colonne' in French and 'columna' in Spanish, showing its widespread use.
- Historically, columns have been used in architecture since ancient civilizations to support buildings and were often made of stone or marble.
The word 'column' originated from the Latin word 'columna', which means a pillar or a vertical support structure. Columns have been an essential architectural element in various civilizations, from ancient Greek and Roman temples to modern skyscrapers. In the context of data and information storage, the term 'column' gained prominence with the advent of spreadsheets and databases, where data is organized in rows and columns for easy access and analysis.