pillar

pil-lar · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A tall vertical structure of stone, wood, or metal used as support for a building or as a monument.

  2. 2.

    A person or thing that provides essential support for something.

  3. 3.

    A column-shaped mass of something.

Forms

plural: pillars

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    pillar of strength — Someone who provides dependable support.
  • •
    from pillar to post — From one place to another without success.

Related words

See also: column, foundation, support
Synonyms: column, post, support

Etymology

From Old French piler, from Medieval Latin pilare, from Latin pila ("pier, pillar").