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
• wharf
• quay

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier

Recent Examples on the Web

The open men’s and women’s national champions are expected to be awarded the Mayor’s Cup at about 4:30 p.m. on the south side of the pier. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 3 July 2025

Bill Smith, a regular on the pier, again took these baits out in a small boat and dropped them well away from the pier. —Donald Millus, Outdoor Life, 3 July 2025

Strong longshore currents can sweep swimmers and surfers into rip currents, piers, jetties and other hazardous areas. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2025

At Island Pier, tiger sharks are showing little interest in beachgoers away from the pier. —Joe Sills, Forbes.com, 1 July 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