collaborator
UK: kəˈlæbəreɪtə | US: kəˈlæbəreɪtər
n. a person who works jointly with others, especially in a creative or intellectual endeavor
n. a person who cooperates traitorously with an enemy occupying their country
collaborator = col<together> + labor<work> + ator<agent noun suffix>
- col<together>: From Latin com- (a variant of con-), meaning "with" or "together."
- labor<work>: From Latin labor, meaning "toil, exertion, work."
- ator<agent noun suffix>: From Latin -ator, denoting a person who performs an action.
Etymology Origin:
The word collaborator emerged in the early 19th century, derived from the verb collaborate (itself from Latin collaborare, "to work together"). The term initially described cooperative work in intellectual or artistic projects. During World War II, it acquired a negative connotation, referring to those who cooperated with enemy forces, particularly in occupied territories. The dual meaning reflects the word’s structural logic: col- (jointly) + labor (work) + -ator (one who does).
She was a key collaborator on the research project, contributing innovative ideas.
The scientist sought a collaborator to help analyze the complex data.
During the war, some citizens were accused of being collaborators with the invading army.
The film director thanked his collaborators for their dedication to the project.
The book was written in partnership with a collaborator who specialized in historical archives.