Column is a vertical structural member that carry loads mainly in compression. It might transfer loads from a ceiling, floor slab, roof slab, or from a beam, to a floor or foundations. Commonly, columns also carry bending moments about one or both of the cross-section axes. More @Wikipedia
Hover over any link to get a description of the article. Please note that search keywords are sometimes hidden within the full article and don't appear in the description or title.