pier

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: B2 — Upper-Intermediate

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a platform built out from the shore into the water and supported by piles; provides access to ships and boats
  2. noun (architecture) a vertical supporting structure (as a portion of wall between two doors or windows)
  3. noun a support for two adjacent bridge spans

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English pere (“bridge pillar, breakwater”), from either Anglo-Norman pere (“stone”, from Latin petra) or Old French *piere (Old Northern French pire, from either Late Latin *petricus or pēra "satchel"); compare Medieval Latin pira.

In classic literature

Synonyms

wharf, wharfage, dock

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