What does weblog mean?
A weblog is a website or a regular section of one where dated entries, or posts, are added over time. It may function as a personal diary, commentary column, news digest, or resource organized around a particular subject. As a verb, to weblog means to write or publish posts in this format. The name combines “web” with “log,” reflecting the practice of keeping an online record; “blog” became the usual shortened form after the format became widely popular. In everyday use, a weblog differs from a static website chiefly through the continuing publication of posts, often in reverse chronological order. The term has an informal, early-internet flavour and is now less common than “blog,” partly because social media platforms and newer publishing formats have absorbed many of the same functions. Even so, it remains useful in writing that describes this specific kind of online journal or emphasizes its record-like character.
A website or regular section of a website on which posts, commentary, or journal entries are published regularly, often in reverse chronological order.
"His weblog records his observations of local politics."
The word is now relatively uncommon, though it can be useful when emphasizing an online journal's continuing, record-like character.
To write, post, or maintain entries in a weblog.
"She has weblogged regularly about experimental typography for more than a decade."
This use is less frequent than the verb “blog.”
The standard plural is “weblogs.” The noun is normally used in the plural when referring to multiple sites or publications.
"Two new weblogs appeared during the first week of the conference."
The “log” in weblog is literal in spirit: it is a running record published on the web.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of weblog
Weblog is an English compound of “web” and “log,” both written as one word, although “web log” was also used. The term became established in the late 1990s as online personal journals and commentary sites grew popular, and “blog” soon emerged as a clipping of it. The word “web” comes from Old English webb, while “log” in the sense of a written record entered English through Middle English from Old French loge.
Related word forms
How weblog is actually used
The word has an informal, technology-oriented register and can sound dated in contemporary use because social media platforms have absorbed many of its functions. The verb is relatively uncommon, since “blog” is normally preferred.
Easily confused with weblog
A website may contain any kind of online content, whereas a weblog is distinguished by the regular publication of posts or entries.