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

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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 Joe Buck, a leading play-by-play voice and pillar of ESPN‘s NFL football coverage, is extending his contract. — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2026 Butler was a pillar of stability throughout Price’s childhood. — Andrew Destin, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026 In a way, the two very different brands –– one an established pillar of New York fashion famed for its ‘70s wrap dress, and the other a respected darling with prime promise — have a sort of big-little sister or kindred spirit association. — Bianca Betancourt, CNN Money, 15 Sep. 2026 Wehr, 27, a notable social media influencer and pillar of the Irvine sports car community, was the first victim identified. — Owen Carry, USA Today, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pillar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pillar
Noun
  • The small saints on side pilasters were sold off on the antiques market.
    — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Even now, its fins and pilasters adorn plenty of new construction, and in real-estate-speak, the phrase is code for high class.
    — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 8 June 2026
Noun
  • The captain drops the anchor near a reef where fan-like corals in shades of purple and gold overlap, creating what looks like an underwater metropolis.
    — Claire Turrell, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026
  • The event program will be hosted by Good Day LA anchor Brooke Thomas and features a DJ set by Katie Otro.
    — Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 23 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • The Greek columns on its facade, south of downtown on the corner of Holman and Austin Streets, proclaimed the stability— the unimpeachable correctness—of one of the city’s most enduring institutions.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2026
  • The artists receiving the most votes will be featured in a music column launching soon.
    — Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 22 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Simple knits are the backbone of a fall wardrobe, and the Zesica V-neck Sweater has the understated look that Rag & Bone does so well.
    — Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2026
  • In summary, Linde represents a rare and highly attractive opportunity to invest in the hardware backbone of AI at a standard defensive valuation.
    — Harvey Stober, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pillar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pillar. Accessed 24 Sep. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on pillar

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster