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

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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 Stretching across the base of the windshield, the panoramic iDrive display projects information onto a black band that runs from one A-pillar to the other. — New Atlas, 7 Oct. 2026 The clusters of leaning stone pillars are estimated to predate the rise of ancient Egypt by a thousand years. — Taylor Luck, Christian Science Monitor, 7 Oct. 2026 Simmons’s campaign pillars are public safety, healthcare, help for low-income families and open, responsible government. — Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Oct. 2026 The hotel, on Saratoga Springs’ main drag, is unmissable with its Victorian wedding cake of a facade and three-story high pillars. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 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
  • Broadcaster, journalist, Today anchor and avid Wordle player Savannah Guthrie is set to host.
    — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Meta needs its personal agent to be an anchor app for the company, which has been trailing competitors like OpenAI and Google in the red-hot AI market.
    — Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • The artwork extends across an iron column, a beam, the ceiling, and the surrounding walls.
    — Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 13 Oct. 2026
  • In his Sunday column this week, Jim Cramer noted that this market is facing several headwinds — both at home and abroad.
    — Zev Fima, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • In the Dodgers’ quest for a third straight World Series title, the rotation is going to have to serve as the backbone.
    — Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Cryptography forms the backbone of online encryption, used in web browsers, secure messaging and online banking.
    — Will Barker, TheWeek, 9 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Pillar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pillar. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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