Langimage
English

pier

|pier|

B2

🇺🇸

/pɪr/

🇬🇧

/pɪə/

structure extending into water

Etymology
Etymology Information

'pier' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'pire', where 'pire' meant 'a breakwater or a landing place'.

Historical Evolution

'pire' transformed into the Middle English word 'pyr', and eventually became the modern English word 'pier'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a breakwater or a landing place', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a structure extending into the water'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a structure built on posts extending from land out over water, used as a landing place for ships or as a promenade.

The ferry docked at the pier.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a vertical support for a bridge or arch.

The bridge's piers were reinforced to withstand strong currents.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42