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pier Definition

pier (pir)

noun

  1. a heavy structure supporting the spans of a bridge, esp., as distinguished from an abutment, one supporting the adjacent ends of two center spans of a long bridge
  2. a structure built out over the water and supported by pillars or piles: used as a landing place, pleasure pavilion, etc.
  3. Archit.
    1. a heavy column, usually square, used to support weight, as at the end of an arch
    2. the part of a wall between windows or other openings
    3. a reinforcing part built out from the surface of a wall

Etymology: ME per < ML pera, ult. < ? or akin to L petra, stone < Gr, rock

pier Synonyms

pier

n.

wharf, landing, quay; see dock 1.

pier Usage Examples

Preposition: of

arcade: Above the piers of the arcade are corbels from the earlier roof; one is used as a support for a statue.

Converse of object

  • erect: There had been groins and piers erected over the centuries but nothing really substantial.
  • restore: Lots of lovely MG's against the backdrop of Englands oldest, restored Victorian pier at Clevedon.
  • rebuild: The alternative plan would build up to the lower promenade only, enabling people to view the rebuilt pier in its entirety.
  • overlook: If you arrive after a leisurely breakfast, expect to park in the car park on the hill that overlooks the pier.

Adjective modifier

  • octagonal: The nave arches are borne on octagonal piers, probably of an earlier church.
  • slender: Note the relatively slender piers and rounded cutwaters, evidence of French influence on bridge design, as is the level roadway.
  • wooden: All the communities were well served by good wooden piers.
  • Victorian: Odd structure half a mile offshore turned out to be the end of the long gone Victorian pier.
  • derelict: Except for what appeared to be a derelict roadman's hut at the end of an equally derelict pier.
  • circular: The main part of the church had wooden rib vaults and circular piers.

Modifies a noun

  • pavilion: The pier pavilion has also been built offering superb views out across the South Sefton Coast and North Wales.
  • neck: Designed by Edward Cooper Poole this new building was constructed nearer the pier neck to allow for a larger forecourt area at the entrance.
  • head: The line of ancestry terminates at the pier head.

Noun used with modifier

  • mahahual: Off ship at risers carved in the mahahual pier told people they'd.
  • seaside: His stunts on seaside piers included jumping into the sea in a sack.
  • steamer: Access to the water can either be through Balloch Park or via the road to the Maid of the Loch paddle steamer pier.
  • masonry: Dramatically located some 270 meters above sea level, crossing Hewenden Beck on 16 masonry piers.
  • brick: The house was not attached to the brick piers in any way.
  • ferry: The route in front of the Woolwich Arsenal by the site for the ferry pier ought to be marked for cyclists.