How Do You Spell COLUMN?

Pronunciation: [kˈɒlʌm] (IPA)

The word "column" has an interesting spelling, and to understand it, we can use the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The word is spelled phonetically as /ˈkɒləm/. The "c" at the beginning is pronounced like a "k", followed by an "o" sound. The "l" is pronounced twice, and the vowel sound after it is pronounced like an "uh". The final syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by a soft "m". Despite its unusual spelling, "column" is a commonly used word to describe a vertical support structure.

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
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COLUMN Meaning and Definition

  1. A column is a structural element that is primarily used to support weight or resist compression in architectural and engineering design. It is a vertical, tall, and cylindrical or polygonal pillar-like structure, often made of materials like concrete, steel, or stone, that is commonly found in buildings or structures. Columns are typically erected in a series, forming rows or colonnades, and are frequently used to provide structural stability while also adding aesthetic appeal to the design.

    In classical architecture, a column is composed of three main parts: the base, the shaft, and the capital. The base functions as the lowermost part of the column, providing stability and distributing the weight evenly. The shaft is the elongated, vertical section that may feature decorative elements or fluting. Lastly, the capital is the topmost part, often ornate and intricately designed, which supports the entablature or architrave above.

    Columns can be found in various architectural styles, such as Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, each exhibiting distinct characteristics and details. They serve as fundamental elements in structures like temples, government buildings, palaces, and churches, adding both strength and elegance to the overall design. Additionally, columns may also have symbolic, historical, or cultural significance, representing certain periods or architectural movements.

  2. • Columnar.
    • A pillar or shaft used to adorn or support a building; any body pressing downwards perpendicularly on its base and of the same diameter as the base, as a column of water, air, or mercury; a body of troops drawn up in deep files; a division of the page of a book; a perpendicular line of figures; in bot., the solid body formed by the union of the styles and filaments in some plants.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for COLUMN *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for COLUMN

Etymology of COLUMN

The word "column" originated from the Latin word "columna", which referred to a pillar or post. The Latin term itself was derived from the earlier Greek word "kolōnos", meaning a pillar or column. The Greek word has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European (PIE) language, where the root "*kel-" meant "to be prominent" or "elevated". As a result, the etymology of the word "column" traces back to the concept of an elevated structure.

Idioms with the word COLUMN

  • a little from column A, a little from column B The idiom "a little from column A, a little from column B" refers to a situation where the individual or decision-maker is combining or blending elements or ideas from different sources, options, or choices. It typically expresses a compromise or mix of different perspectives or alternatives to create a balanced or satisfactory outcome.
  • column cover There doesn't seem to be a widely recognized or established idiom called "column cover." It might be a specific term related to construction or architecture, referring to a decorative covering or cladding used to conceal or enhance the appearance of a structural column. However, without more context, it's challenging to provide a definitive definition for this term.
  • lonely hearts club/column, etc., at lonely hearts The phrase "lonely hearts club/column, etc., at lonely hearts" refers to a place or column dedicated to individuals who are seeking companionship or romantic relationships due to feeling lonely or isolated. It is usually used to describe a group or platform where people can connect with others who are in a similar emotional state, looking for love or friendship.
  • fifth column The idiom "fifth column" refers to a clandestine group or organization within a country or entity that supports and assists an external enemy or invader. It is used to describe individuals or groups who work secretly against their own country or cause, often through spying, sabotage, or promoting dissent. The term originated during the Spanish Civil War, referring to a rebel faction that acted as a fifth column assisting General Franco's forces in their conquest of Madrid.
  • dodge the column

Similar spelling words for COLUMN

Plural form of COLUMN is COLUMNS

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