pier

noun

ˈpir 

1

: an intermediate support for the adjacent ends of two bridge spans

2

: a structure (such as a breakwater) extending into navigable water for use as a landing place or promenade or to protect or form a harbor

3

: a vertical structural support: such as

a

: the wall between two openings

b

: pillar, pilaster

c

: a vertical member that supports the end of an arch or lintel

d

: an auxiliary mass of masonry used to stiffen a wall

4

: a structural mount (as for a telescope) usually of stonework, concrete, or steel

Synonyms

• dock
• float
• jetty
• landing
• levee
• quai
• quay
• wharf

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier

Recent Examples on the Web

Pulling up to the resort's beachfront pier feels like stepping into a postcard. —Lauren Mowery, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025

Fire investigators have said old wiring beneath the pier deck probably caused the fire. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 2025

Next is a final evaluation of structural damage to the pier, Associate Engineer Luis Cardenas said Friday. —Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 2025

Additionally, the span between primary support piers will expand from 1,209 feet (368 meters) to 1,600 feet (487 meters), mitigating navigational hazards for large vessels. —Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 24 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English per, from Old English, from Medieval Latin pera

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pier

• pier glass
• pier table

Rhymes for pier

• beer
• bier
• cheer
• clear
• dear
• deer
• drear
• ear
• fear
• fier
• gear
• hear

Kids Definition

pier

noun

ˈpi(ə)r 

1

: a support for a bridge

2

: a structure built out into the water for use as a landing place or walk or to protect or form a harbor

3

: an upright supporting part (as a pillar or buttress) of a building or structure