pillar

Meaning

Noun

1. A large post, often used as supporting architecture.
2. Something resembling such a structure.
3. (figuratively) An essential part of something that provides support.
4. A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church.
5. The centre of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns.
6. The body from the hips over the core to the shoulders.
7. A vertical, often spire-shaped, natural rock formation.

Verb

To provide with pillars or added strength as if from pillars.

Synonyms

column

post

pole

prop

support

mainstay

pier

strut

stanchion

backbone

leg

🦵

mast

center

pylon

cryptomeria

tower

cornerstone

house post

pile

buttress

pedestal

stack

stake

stone column

centre

bearing block

linchpin

carving

neck

nucleus

leader

key man

buttressing

bearing

abutment

jamb

puncheon

guidepost

principle

girder

foundation

bulwark

baluster

plume

rank

rib

rod

scape

sculpture

pivot

Translations

pilier

colonne

Säule

pilastro

columna

colonna

pilar

zuil

Pfeiler

coluna

pilar

kolom

pilaar

Pronounced as (IPA)

/ˈpɪlɚ/

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English: piler

In summary

From Middle English piler, from Old French pilier, from Medieval Latin or Vulgar Latin *pilāre (“a pillar”), from Latin pila (“a pillar, pier, mole”).