Columnist

Definition

Columnist refers to a journalist or writer who regularly contributes articles or opinion pieces, known as columns, to newspapers, magazines, or websites. These columns often reflect personal opinions or insights on a specific topic or current event.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɑːləmnɪst/
• Respelling: KAH-luhm-nist

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈkɒləmnɪst/
• Respelling: KOL-uhm-nist

Etymology

The word "columnist" is derived from the word "column," which comes from the Latin "columna," meaning "pillar." The term "column" in journalism began to refer to a regularly appearing section or feature in a publication in the early 20th century. The "-ist" suffix, from French and Latin, indicates a person who performs a particular activity, leading to the term "columnist."

Derivatives

• Column (noun)
• Columnar (adjective)
• Columnizing (verb)
• Column-writing (noun)
• Columned (adjective)

Synonyms

• Journalist
• Writer
• Commentator

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "columnist" is often used to refer to a journalist who writes recurring articles on a specific subject or provides commentary on various topics. For example, "The political columnist wrote an insightful piece about the upcoming election." A columnist often has a distinct voice and style and is expected to offer opinions, critiques, or personal reflections, which are separate from traditional news reporting.

Related Terms

• Opinion Piece: An article that reflects the author's viewpoint on a particular issue.
• Editorial: A newspaper article that expresses the opinions of the editorial staff.
• Feature Writer: A journalist who writes in-depth stories or articles beyond just news reporting.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A journalist who regularly writes opinion articles: Refers to someone who contributes recurring opinion pieces or articles, often on specific topics or fields of expertise.
  • Example: "The sports columnist has been covering the football league for over 20 years."
• A writer who provides commentary: Describes someone who offers personal insights or interpretations on current events or issues in their written works.
  • Example: "The columnist published a weekly analysis of political developments."