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

Strong longshore currents can sweep swimmers and surfers into rip currents, piers, jetties and other hazardous areas. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 15 Apr. 2025

Meet on the pier for a family meal at Surf's Up Grill & Bar. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 13 Apr. 2025

The Vans Jack Surfboards Pro kicked off on Thursday, April 3, and runs through Sunday on the south side of the pier, a chance for beachgoers to get an up-close look at pro surfing action — and possibly score some free swag. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 5 Apr. 2025

Yet his exquisite visual compositions (of lonely bedrooms, concrete piers, and nocturnal courtyards) infuse even the film’s racy images with a somber sense of longing and introspection, finding beauty and humanity in the midst of the macabre. —The New York Times, New York Times, 4 Apr. 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