ˈpi(ə)r, -iə noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English pere, per, from Old English per, from Medieval Latin pera
1. : an intermediate support for the adjacent ends of two bridge spans — distinguished from abutment
2.
a. : a breakwater, groin, or mole extending into navigable water for use as a landing place or promenade or to protect or form a harbor
b. : a structure built out into the water on piles for use as a landing place or pleasure resort
c. obsolete : haven
3. : a vertical structural support: as
a. : the wall between two windows, doors, or other openings
b. : pillar , pilaster ; especially : one that carries a major load (as at a church crossing)
c. : a pillar, post, or other vertical member that supports the end of an arch or lintel : doorpost , gatepost , buttress
d. : an auxiliary mass of masonry used to stiffen a wall
e. : a vertical layer of ashlars in a rubble wall
4. : a structural mount (as of a large telescope) usually of stonework, concrete, or steel
Synonyms: see wharf