Pillar: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a strong support structure, often metaphorically to describe someone or something that plays a crucial role in a system or organization.

• She was a pillar of the community.
• The library is a pillar of our educational system.

Typically used in architecture to describe a vertical structure supporting a building or to refer to sections in a table or newspaper.

• The ancient temple had many marble columns.
• She writes a weekly column for the newspaper.

Often used to describe a wooden or metal rod planted in the ground to support something, like a fence or sign, or to describe a position in an organization.

• He leaned against the wooden post.
• She was offered a post in the marketing department.

Primarily used to describe a long, narrow, vertical passage, often in machinery or mining.

• The elevator shaft was under repair.
• He fell down the mine shaft.

Used to describe a person or thing that is a key support or element in an organization, community, or structure.

• She was a pillar of the local community, always volunteering her time
• The old bridge stands firm on its stone pillars

Refers to the solid base, often literally for buildings, but also metaphorically for concepts, systems, or organizations.

• Education is the foundation of a successful career
• The house's foundation was laid in the 1800s

Often used to denote something that is essential, fundamental, or the most important part of a larger structure or system. It can also refer to the first stone set in the construction of a masonry foundation.

• Trust is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship
• Religious freedom was a cornerstone of the nation's founding principles

Used to describe someone or something that is the primary support or most dependable center of a system or group.

• The mainstay of their economy was agriculture
• He was the mainstay of the team, always scoring crucial points

Used to describe a strong vertical structure that provides support to buildings or other structures. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone or something that is a central or essential support in an organization or community.

• The ancient temple had massive stone pillars.
• She is considered a pillar of the community due to her generous contributions.

Describes something that is in a vertical position. Often used to signify something or someone who is morally sound and honest, but can also be used to describe vertical structures.

• The bookshelf was so old it could hardly stay upright.
• She is known to be an upright and honest person.

Typically refers to a long, horizontal piece used in construction to support the floor or ceiling. It's key in building frameworks. Can also be used metaphorically to imply a broad, supportive element.

• The ceiling was held up by heavy wooden beams.
• His smile is like a beam of light in dark times.

Refers to a vertical bar, post, or frame that supports something or forms a barrier. Often used in the context of barriers at events, or to secure livestock.

• The stanchions guided the crowd into orderly lines.
• He removed the stanchion to let the cows into the field.