Columns: meaning, definitions and examples

🏛️

Add to dictionary

columns

[ˈkɒləm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in a room

Vertical pillars that support the roof and walls of a building.

Synonyms

pillar, post, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
columns	Usually refers to vertical structural elements that support a building or other structure, often arranged in rows. The ancient Greek temple had several beautifully carved columns The newspaper columns are always full of interesting articles

Word

Description / Examples

columns

Usually refers to vertical structural elements that support a building or other structure, often arranged in rows.

The ancient Greek temple had several beautifully carved columns
The newspaper columns are always full of interesting articles

Examples of usage

The living room had elegant columns that added a touch of sophistication to the space.
The ancient Greek architecture is known for its use of columns in temples and public buildings.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in a table

A vertical division of facts or figures, typically in a newspaper or magazine.

Synonyms

category, division, section.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
columns	Use this word when referring to vertical divisions in a table, newspaper, or spreadsheet. The data was organized into columns for easy comparison She writes a weekly advice column in the newspaper
section	Use this word when referring to a distinct part of something written or spoken, or a smaller part of a whole in a more general sense. Please read the introduction section before starting the main text This section of the city is known for its vibrant nightlife
category	Use this word when referring to a group or class of things, especially if they share common characteristics. All the books in the library are sorted into different categories This falls under the category of emergency expenditures
division	Use this word when referring to the act of separating something into parts, or a section formally created within a larger organization. The company underwent a major division to improve efficiency Education division is now focusing on higher education reforms

Examples of usage

The newspaper had a column dedicated to sports news.
The financial report included a column showing the company's profits and losses.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

computing

To arrange (a page, text, or data) in parallel lines.

Synonyms

align, format, organize.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
columns	Columns are used in various contexts such as writing, data tables, architecture, and spreadsheets to refer to vertical divisions. Please arrange the data into columns for better readability. The report is divided into several columns for easier comparison. Ancient Greek architecture often featured impressive columns.
align	Align is used when you need things to be in a straight line or in proper positioning, often in text formatting or design. Make sure to align the text to the center before printing. The pictures on the wall need to be aligned perfectly.
format	Format is used when referring to the arrangement or style of text, documents, or other elements to meet specific standards or aesthetics. You need to format the document according to the company's guidelines. She spent hours formatting the presentation slides for the meeting.
organize	Organize is used when sorting, arranging, or structuring items systematically, whether physically or digitally. We need to organize the files in alphabetical order. He is very good at organizing events and meetings.

Examples of usage

The data in the spreadsheet was columned to make it easier to read and analyze.
The text was columned for better readability on the website.

Interesting Facts

Architectural History

In ancient Greece, columns were essential elements in temple architecture, often adorned with decorative capitals.
The three main styles of columns in classical architecture are Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, each with unique designs.
Columns not only provide support but also signify important social and religious structures in various cultures.

Literature

In literature, 'columns' often refer to a recurring article or piece in a publication, offering opinions and commentary.
Famous columnists, like Erma Bombeck, have shaped public discourse through their relatable narratives and humorous takes.
In poetry, columns can symbolize structure, organization, and the vertical lines reflect the weight of ideas.

Data and Technology

In databases and spreadsheets, columns organize data into manageable sections, making it easier to read and analyze.
Columnar databases are designed for fast retrieval and efficiency, often used in big data analytics.
The concept of columns in programming can represent arrays or lists, which store multiple data points for easier access.

Pop Culture

In the modern world, visual representation of columns can be found in infographics, helping simplify complex information.
The popularity of media columns has led to online platforms where anyone can share opinions and expertise on varied subjects.
Columns in comic strips provide a blend of visuals and narratives, appealing to diverse audiences with humor and insight.

Science

In biology, columns are often used metaphorically to describe structures like the spinal cord, emphasizing vertical support.
Columns in chemistry refer to the arrangement of elements in the periodic table, illustrating relationships based on properties.
The concept of columns also appears in physics, where the term can describe things like pressure or force distribution in structures.

Translations

Translations of the word "columns" in other languages:

🇵🇹 colunas

🇮🇳 स्तंभ

🇩🇪 Spalten

🇮🇩 kolom

🇺🇦 колонки

🇵🇱 kolumny

🇯🇵 列

🇫🇷 colonnes

🇪🇸 columnas

🇹🇷 sütunlar

🇰🇷 열

🇸🇦 أعمدة

🇨🇿 sloupce

🇸🇰 stĺpce

🇨🇳 列

🇸🇮 stolpci

🇮🇸 dálkar

🇰🇿 бағандар

🇬🇪 სვეტები

🇦🇿 sütunlar

🇲🇽 columnas

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,158, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.

...
3155 moments
3156 assured
3157 obliged
3158 columns
3159 scholars
3160 honest
3161 plot
...