English Reference
noun

col

n.
col UK spelling cols

  1. 01 C2 Proficiency Technical

    the lowest point on a ridge between two mountain peaks.

    the lowest point of a ridge between two peaks, often forming a pass. The term is frequently used in mountaineering and professional cycling contexts.

    Simple

    The hikers reached the col between the two mountains just as the sun began to set.

    In context

    The lead cyclists struggled through the final ascent to the col, where the narrow pass offered a brief respite before the technical descent.

    Usage

    Commonly used in geography and mountaineering to describe a specific landform.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Computing

    a short way to write the word 'column', often used in tables or computer code.

    a standard abbreviation for 'column', typically employed in typesetting, spreadsheet software, or database management.

    Simple

    In the spreadsheet, col A contains the dates and col B contains the prices.

    In context

    The developer adjusted the width of the third col in the CSS grid to ensure the layout remained responsive on mobile devices.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate TechnicalAmerican English

    a short way to write the word 'color' or 'colour'.

    a standard abbreviation for 'color', frequently found in design software or technical specifications.

    Simple

    The design document listed the col as 'navy blue' for the company logo.

    In context

    The technical manual specifies the col requirements for the print run to ensure brand consistency across all marketing materials.

Lt Col Joseph Muchechesi, commander of the boat regiment involved in the search operation, said: “So far today we have managed to take 22 bodies.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026

As far as the Nahal brigade’s chief of staff, reserve Col Nochi Mendel, was concerned, they were “mingling” with Hamas.

The Guardian· 5 Sept 2026
This entry
Level C2 · Proficiency
Frequency Frequent
Updated