n.
Pronunciation: ' pir
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English per, from Old English, from Medieval Latin pera
Date: 12th century
1 : an intermediate support for the adjacent ends of two bridge spans
2 : a structure (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: 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