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

Its pointed arches, flying buttresses and piers sprouting ribs that branched like spider webs helped usher in the Gothic age. —Michael Kimmelman, New York Times, 6 Dec. 2024

The Biden administration granted us a $160 million investment that will enable us to transform the 122-acre Brooklyn Marine Terminal into a modern port and mixed-use community hub, upgrading three piers to move freight on the waterways and reduce our city’s reliance on trucks. —John Surico, Curbed, 26 Nov. 2024

The application, proposed by Baltimore wind company US Wind, requested to expand a 353-foot long pier in West Ocean City used by local fishers. —Sofia Appolonio, Baltimore Sun, 20 Nov. 2024

Voters are also deciding on Measure BB, which would add a half-cent local sales tax to raise funds to restore sand on local beaches, maintain the beach trail and pier, and provide funds to San Clemente lifeguards for equipment. —Erika I. Ritchie, Orange County Register, 5 Nov. 2024

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

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