column
KOL-uhm
/ˈkɒl.əm/
An upright pillar, typically cylindrical and made of stone or concrete, supporting an entablature, arch, or roof.
Specifically implies a vertical, load-bearing cylindrical pillar or a vertical arrangement of print/data.
The story behind the word. The word traces back to Proto-Indo-European *kel- meaning 'to stand tall' or 'rise high', which also gave us 'culminate' and 'hill'. In Latin, 'columna' referred to structural posts that lifted roof timber above ground level, establishing the classical architectural Orders.
Word relationships
- pillar: Pillar is broader and can be square, irregular, or metaphorical, while column often implies classical proportions or precise cylindrical form.
- post: Usually refers to smaller, timber or metal vertical supports.
Commonly confused with
- pilaster: A pilaster is a rectangular ornamental column attached to a wall, whereas a column is a free-standing vertical support.
Word family
- columnar (adjective): Shaped like or consisting of columns.
Collocations
- fluted column
- load-bearing column
- marble column
- row of columns
Idioms & expressions
- fifth column
Example sentences
- "The ancient temple features massive marble columns carved in the Doric order." Classical Architecture
- "Engineers placed steel-reinforced columns throughout the lower level to support the skyscraper above." Structural Engineering
Memory hook
Columns stand tall and vertical like a giant capital letter I holding up a ceiling. Column = Upright pillar.
When not to use
Do not call a flat wall beam a column; columns are distinct vertical supports.
Fun facts
- Classical Greek architecture established three primary column styles: simple Doric, scrolled Ionic, and elaborate Corinthian with acanthus leaves.
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