In general:
* Someone who works with others on a project or task. This is the most common meaning. It implies a shared goal and a willingness to work together to achieve it.
* Someone who provides information or assistance to someone else. This could be in a business setting, a research project, or even in a personal relationship.
In specific contexts:
* In a historical context, a "collaborator" often refers to someone who aided the enemy during wartime. This is a highly charged term, often carrying connotations of betrayal and treachery. For example, during World War II, people who aided the Nazi regime were called "collaborators".
* In business, a "collaborator" can be someone who is part of a team or joint venture. It can also refer to someone who works with a company on a specific project, such as a contractor or consultant.
* In the tech world, a "collaborator" can be someone who contributes to an open-source project or a community project. This typically involves sharing knowledge and code to improve the project.
To understand the specific meaning of "collaborator," it's important to consider the context. Are you talking about a collaborative work environment, a historical event, or a specific project?
Let me know if you have a specific scenario in mind, and I can help you understand the meaning of "collaborator" in that context.