Pillar: meaning, definitions and examples

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pillar

[ˈpɪlər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

support

A tall vertical structure of stone, wood, or metal, used as a support for a building, or as an ornament or monument.

Synonyms

column, post, shaft.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pillar	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.
column	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.
post	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.
shaft	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.

Examples of usage

The ancient temple was supported by massive stone pillars.
The marble pillars in the entrance hall added a touch of elegance to the building.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

principle

A person or thing regarded as reliably providing essential support or a strong foundation.

Synonyms

cornerstone, foundation, mainstay.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pillar	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
foundation	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
cornerstone	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
mainstay	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

Examples of usage

Education is often seen as the pillar of a successful society.
Family values are considered one of the pillars of a strong community.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

upright

A slender, upright, supporting or reinforcing member, as of a frame or wall.

Synonyms

beam, stanchion, upright.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
pillar	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.
upright	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.
beam	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.
stanchion	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.

Examples of usage

The pillars of the bridge were designed to withstand strong winds.
The wooden pillars were intricately carved with decorative patterns.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

Pillars have been used in buildings for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks.
In classical architecture, different styles of pillars, such as Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian, have unique designs and proportions.
Some modern buildings use reinforced concrete pillars, making them strong enough to support massive loads.

Symbolism

Pillars often symbolize strength, support, and stability in various cultures; for instance, family members are sometimes called 'pillars of support.'
In literature, a character described as a 'pillar of the community' is someone who provides significant help and leadership to others.

Cultural References

The term 'pillar' appears in many sayings, like 'a pillar of strength,' suggesting someone who helps others through tough times.
In architecture, churches and temples often have grand pillars, signifying their importance and adding to the beauty of the structure.

Engineering

Pillars are essential in civil engineering for supporting buildings and bridges, often designed to withstand earthquakes and heavy loads.
Geotechnical engineers study the soil under pillars to ensure they are built on solid ground to avoid collapses.

Historical Significance

Some ancient pillars, such as the Ashoka Pillars in India, are inscribed with messages that communicate moral and ethical values.
The Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, featured 127 magnificent pillars that showcased advanced engineering.

Translations

Translations of the word "pillar" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pilar

🇮🇳 स्तंभ

🇩🇪 Säule

🇮🇩 pilar

🇺🇦 стовп

🇵🇱 filar

🇯🇵 柱 (はしら)

🇫🇷 pilier

🇪🇸 pilar

🇹🇷 sütun

🇰🇷 기둥

🇸🇦 عمود

🇨🇿 sloup

🇸🇰 stĺp

🇨🇳 柱子 (zhùzi)

🇸🇮 stolpec

🇮🇸 súla

🇰🇿 бағана

🇬🇪 სვეტი

🇦🇿 sütun

🇲🇽 pilar

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,894 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8891 partisan
8892 undermine
8893 tubing
8894 pillar
8895 canon
8896 incidentally
8897 intricate
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