columnar

[ kuh-luhm-ner ]

adjective

1. shaped like a column.
2. characterized by columns:

   columnar architecture.

3. Also co·lum·nal []. printed, arranged, etc., in columns:

   data in columnar form.

Other Words From

• col·um·nar·i·ty [kol-, uh, m-, nar, -i-tee], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of columnar¹

1720–30; < Late Latin columnāris, equivalent to column ( a ) column + -āris -ar ¹

Example Sentences

In a recent study, researchers from Japan developed modified norcorrole molecules whose side chains favored the formation of columnar π-stacking structures.

From Science Daily

To replicate the columnar formations of birds, in which they line up one directly behind the other, the researchers created mechanized flappers that act like birds' wings.

From Science Daily

This layered compound, like the previously reported one, also exhibited columnar defects spanning all stacked layers.

From Science Daily

It is transparent, colorless and made primarily of phosphorus formed as columnar crystals.

From Salon

The logo combines elements from across the state, like Mount Spokane, columnar basalt formations, picturesque coastlines and the official state tree, the Western hemlock.

From Seattle Times