colleague
KOL-eeg
/ˈkɒl.iːɡ/
A person with whom one works, typically in a profession or business.
Usually implies equal professional status or peer relationship, unlike a boss or subordinate.
The story behind the word. Colleague comes from the Latin collega, which combines col- (together) with legere (to choose). Literally, a colleague is 'someone chosen to work alongside another.' In ancient Rome, it referred specifically to magistrates who held office together, sharing the exact same power and responsibilities.
Word relationships
- coworker: Coworker is a general term for anyone you work with, while colleague often carries a slightly more professional, respectful, or academic connotation.
- competitor: A competitor works against you for the same goal, whereas a colleague works with you in the same organization.
Commonly confused with
- partner: A partner implies shared ownership or a formal legal alliance, whereas a colleague is simply a fellow employee or peer in a profession.
Word family
- collegial (adjective): Relating to or involving shared responsibility, characterized by a friendly work relationship.
- collegiality (noun): The cooperative relationship of colleagues.
Collocations
- trusted colleague
- former colleague
- work colleague
- close colleague
Example sentences
- "My distinguished colleague and I spent over a decade analyzing these microscopic structures." A memoir by a prominent scientist reflecting on collaboration.
Memory hook
Think of a 'colleague' as someone you 'call' on to help you 'league' together for a work project. Chosen to league together at work.
When not to use
Avoid using for classmates or social friends who have no connection to your employment or professional field.
Fun facts
- In academic settings, the word 'colleague' is used with high frequency to emphasize a community of equals, regardless of administrative hierarchy.
Related words
Explore more words
peer, collaborate, subordinate, camaraderie, fellowship, collaboration
Also appears in
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