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

People from across the country are coming to the tourist attraction to catch a glimpse of the pier's new superstar. —Carlos E. Castañeda, CBS News, 30 Apr. 2026

The animal, which arrived at the pier about a month ago, has sparked enthusiasm on social media, with Reddit users sharing photos and videos of Chonkers lounging and sunbathing. —Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2026

The Wall Street Journal reported he was first spotted at the pier in March, and Reddit users began posting videos that same month showing the massive animal standing at the front of one of the wooden platforms while smaller sea lions kept their distance. —Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 29 Apr. 2026

The town shuttle drops you in either Ixtapa's mall zone (skip) or Zihuatanejo's fishing pier (go). —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Apr. 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