columnist

UK: ˈkɒləm.nɪst | US: ˈkɑːləm.nɪst

Definition
  1. n. a person who writes a regular column in a newspaper or magazine

Structure
column <vertical division in print>ist <one who practices>
Etymology

The word "columnist" combines "column," referring to a vertical section of text in print media (derived from Latin "columna," meaning "pillar"), with the suffix "-ist," indicating a person who practices or specializes in something. The term emerged in the early 20th century as newspapers expanded opinion and feature sections, creating a role for writers who contributed recurring columns.

Examples
  1. The columnist’s weekly articles on politics are widely read.

  2. She became a columnist after years of reporting local news.

  3. His humorous take as a food columnist earned him a loyal following.

  4. The newspaper hired a new columnist to cover technology trends.

  5. Readers often write letters responding to the columnist’s viewpoints.