A blog–short for weblog–is a website where one or more writers (called bloggers) share their personal insights in news articles or journal-like entries. Blog entries–also called blog posts–can contain text alone or include photos, videos, or links to other internet sources. Blog posts are generally released at regular and frequent intervals, though this is not always the case. Most blogs are formatted with the most recent entries listed first and the rest displayed in reverse chronological order. Blogs often contain comment sections where readers can voice thoughts, concerns, or criticisms about blog posts. Comments can usually be viewed and replied to by both the blogger and other readers.
The subject matter of blogs can be as broad or narrow as the author(s) desire, and the purpose of each blog is unique. Some are meant as an income source, with bloggers hoping to draw in a large following so that they might monetize the blog through ads, partnerships, sales, or memberships. Others serve as a communication tool to convey information about certain subjects or experiences to a narrow audience, without financial incentives.
Any person can make a blog. They need only choose a domain name, blogging platform, and web hosting service, which can be accomplished either through free or paid online services. Most online services will allow for sample or customized layout designs to accommodate for both new and advanced bloggers.
[Last updated in June of 2021 by the Wex Definitions Team]