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

Preparation guidance from the NWS includes avoiding not just swimming, but also staying off piers and other shoreline structures that may be subject to unexpected waves or currents. —Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Sep. 2025

After calling ahead for a water taxi in Ischia Ponte, we were ferried over to Da Maria's pier, and then welcomed into the open-air dining room, which faces the Gulf of Naples. —Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure, 29 Sep. 2025

There’s a 1,850 square-foot community amenity space, 25,000 square feet of waterfront open space and pier access and all stages have the technological infrastructure to adapt to virtual productions. —Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2025

In Emerald Isle, worries wash out with the tides and hospitality always includes making room for one more fishing pole on the pier. —Mary Catherine McAnnally Scott, Southern Living, 24 Sep. 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