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

Its namesake pier is lined with shops and restaurants and extends 800 feet into the Atlantic. —Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026

Stay off of jetties, piers, rocks, and other waterside infrastructure. —Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 31 Jan. 2026

Stay off of jetties, piers, rocks, and other waterside infrastructure. —Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 29 Jan. 2026

The piers of the Skyway began to cleave Araneta Avenue, promising rich Manileños the chance not only to drive past the squatters but above them, and at speed. —Sean Williams, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 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