pier

noun

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
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

Examples of pier in a Sentence

tied the boat up at the pier
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Strong longshore currents can sweep swimmers and surfers into rip currents, piers, jetties and other hazardous areas. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 26 Apr. 2025 The destination — near the Kennedy Space Center and a roughly 60-mile drive east from Orlando — is known for its relaxing beachfront, surfing scene and pier activities, according to the report. Simone Jasper, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2025 Even more, visitors can cast a line off the fishing pier, play disc golf at Joe Eakes Park, and learn about the state's military history at Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2025 The rescue craft were near the end of a long maintenance pier for a ventilation tower serving the Holland Tunnel on the New Jersey side of the river. Michael R. Sisak, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pier

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of pier was in the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pier. Accessed 1 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

pier

noun
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

More from Merriam-Webster on pier

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