pier
6 synonyms for pier, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A raised platform that extends from the shore out over water, used for boats or entertainment.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use pier
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
seaside pier
pier and support
fishing pier
Etymology
From Middle English pere, meaning a bridge pillar or breakwater, tracing back to a Latin word for stone.
Full origin of pier →Frequently asked questions
What does “pier” mean?
The word “pier” means a raised platform that extends from the shore out over water, used for boats or entertainment. In plain terms, a structure jutting out over water, or a supporting column.
How do you pronounce “pier”?
“Pier” is pronounced peer (/pɪɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “pier” in a sentence?
Here is “pier” used in a sentence: “They walked along the pier and watched the fishermen.”
What part of speech is “pier”?
“Pier” is a noun.
Where does the word “pier” come from?
The word “pier” comes from Latin. From Middle English pere, meaning a bridge pillar or breakwater, tracing back to a Latin word for stone.
Is “pier” a common word?
“Pier” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “pier” have?
“Pier” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a raised platform that extends from the shore out over water, used for boats or entertainment.
What is the difference between a pier and a dock?
A pier is a raised platform extending from the shore out over the water, often used for walking, entertainment, or docking boats. A dock is more specifically a structure or area where boats are loaded, unloaded, or moored, and it can include the water space alongside a pier.
What is the difference between a pier and a jetty?
A pier typically runs perpendicular to the shore and is built up on supports for people or boats to use, sometimes hosting shops or attractions. A jetty is usually a narrower structure built to protect a harbor or control water flow, and is not generally designed for entertainment or leisure.
How is pier used in architecture and construction?
In construction, a pier refers to a solid supporting column, such as one holding up a bridge deck or an arch. This sense is distinct from the seaside pier and instead describes a load-bearing structural element.
