Definition of pillarnext
1
as in pilaster
an upright shaft that supports an overhead structure the ancient Greek temple boasted graceful marble pillars with richly ornamented tops

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in anchor
something or someone to which one looks for support my father has been my pillar throughout this crisis

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pillar Because freedom of navigation was viewed as a fundamental principle of the global order, assembling large groups committed to upholding this pillar was intended to demonstrate international resolve and isolate the bad actor. — Dana Stroul, Foreign Affairs, 28 Oct. 2026 During her 70-year reign, the monarch made the Commonwealth one of the pillars of her institutional work, guiding the transformation of an organization tied to the history of the British Empire into a voluntary association of independent states. — Ilaria Perrotta, Vanity Fair, 27 Oct. 2026 The second pillar centers on energy and greenhouse gas evaluations. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 27 Oct. 2026 The steady trickle of those recordings into the groundwater of influence has guaranteed the album its afterlife, both as a great lost future of American music and as a central pillar in the group’s legacy. — Ryan Meehan, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pillar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pillar
Noun
  • Ionic pilasters and a modern light fixture dress up the staircase.
    — Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The small saints on side pilasters were sold off on the antiques market.
    — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 5 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The debate was moderated by chief political anchor Dennis House and anchor Kathryn Hauser, while CCM’s executive director, Joe DeLong, also asked questions on the panel.
    — Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 28 Oct. 2026
  • Leading global funds such as BlackRock, Capital Group and GIC participated in Jio's anchor book portion of the total fundraise, which is set aside for large institutional investors before the IPO opens for public bidding.
    — Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 28 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • OutKick and Fox News Digital editors actually had to discuss what was OK to share in this column that would not stretch the boundary of good taste and editorial norms.
    — Armando Salguero OutKick, FOXNews.com, 27 Oct. 2026
  • McCormack rolled out floors made of limestone or granite, walls that were hand-plastered, and lighting that highlighted the grand room’s distinctive features, such as murals on high ceilings and grand columns.
    — David Mack, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The language that’s known as the backbone of the internet is now subject to what experts describe as one of the most notable vulnerabilities in recent memory.
    — Kaitlyn Huamani, Los Angeles Times, 23 Oct. 2026
  • Stocchetto’s son Maurizio, the current owner, marked the 50th anniversary with a light refurbishment but one that kept the vintage backbone intact, from the brocades and mirrors to the marble floor and dark wood panels.
    — Jaclyn DeGiorgio, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pillar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pillar. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026.

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