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 of pier

• dock
• wharf
• quay

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier

Recent Examples on the Web

Hyatt Regency Aruba rounds out its culinary offerings with a juice bar and pizza truck on the beach, a breakfast buffet, an outdoor café, and a pier serving cocktails and light snacks. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Sep. 2026

Benioff left a tiny gap between one of the piers and the pipe. — Danny Robb, JSTOR Daily, 25 Sep. 2026

The couple was later seen celebrating across the street from the pier at Sam & Omie’s restaurant. — Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 25 Sep. 2026

The company announced the tools at its annual Made on YouTube event in New York City, with CEO Neal Mohan taking the stage in Google’s office in a former shipping pier on the Hudson River. — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2026

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