columnist

noun

col·​um·​nist ˈkä-ləm-nist 

-lə-mist

also ˈkäl-yəm-nist, 

-yə-mist

: one who writes a newspaper or magazine column

columnistic

ˌkä-ləm-ˈni-stik 

also ˌkäl-yəm-

adjective

Examples of columnist in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Columns & Newsletters Ongoing commentary from our roster of columnists who interpret the ideas shaping the moment. —Daphne Koller, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026

Peter Duesberg squandered his scientific reputation by advancing a debunked theory about AIDS, but his influence on anti-vaccine activists lives on, writes columnist Michael Hiltzik. —James Rainey, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026

Deer Valley just unveiled one of the biggest ski resort expansions in history, and our columnist Graham Averill reports on skiing it, with a two-time Olympian, no less. —Graham Averill, Outside, 29 Jan. 2026

Meanwhile, Penelope is settling into her new role not just as Lady Whistledown, columnist, but also as Queen Charlotte's (Golda Rosheuvel) personal gossip monger. —Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 29 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing columnist

• advice columnist

Kids Definition

columnist

noun

col·​um·​nist ˈkäl-əm-(n)əst 

: a person who writes a newspaper or magazine column