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 of pier

• dock
• wharf
• quay

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier

Recent Examples on the Web

During the construction phase, the group avoided the use of heavy machinery to keep most of the jungle intact and used ironwood reclaimed from boat piers and fishing boat decks as the main construction material. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Mar. 2026

Gorman, who was with her friends at the time on the pier, looked behind the lighthouse and saw Medina-Medina there. —Adam Sabes, FOXNews.com, 30 Mar. 2026

Then, Rustan started to share his love for the ocean, putting Sugar on a surfboard with him at his local spot near the pier in Huntington Beach. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 30 Mar. 2026

While walking on the pier, Gorman was startled to find Medina, wearing all black and a ski mask, hiding near the lighthouse. —Madeline Buckley, Chicago Tribune, 27 Mar. 2026

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