pillar

noun

ˈpi-lər How to pronounce pillar (audio)
Definition of pillarnext
1
as in pilaster
an upright shaft that supports an overhead structure the ancient Greek temple boasted graceful marble pillars with richly ornamented tops

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in anchor
something or someone to which one looks for support my father has been my pillar throughout this crisis

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of pillar There’s a symmetry despite all four stands having a different design, ranging from the concrete pillars of the Bramall Lane end to the much smoother lines seen along the John Street Stand. — Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 13 Aug. 2026 Williamson said protection of county waterways is a major pillar of his campaign, highlighting the dangers of chemical sprays meant to control plants that end up damaging the ecosystem. — James Wilkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026 Americans treat food, housing, and healthcare access as core pillars of health. — Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 Steve Buscemi makes the most of his brief screen time as Sophie’s grandfather, a welcome pillar of straightforward understanding and wry humor in destabilizing times. — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pillar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for pillar
  1. pilaster
  2. anchor
  3. column
  4. backbone
Noun
  • The small saints on side pilasters were sold off on the antiques market.
    — Brian Boucher, ARTnews.com, 5 Aug. 2026
  • Even now, its fins and pilasters adorn plenty of new construction, and in real-estate-speak, the phrase is code for high class.
    — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 8 June 2026
Definition of pilaster
Noun
  • Tassel accents make a great outfit anchor; what once adorned the home brings elegance and opulence to your wardrobe.
    — Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
  • Joe gives Joy a quick lesson on dropping the anchor beforehand.
    — Emma Soren, Vulture, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of anchor
Noun
  • Here's a column from a writer who worked for years in the supermarket industry after earning a degree in nutrition.
    — Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 11 Aug. 2026
  • This is part of a series of columns about young people and the economy.
    — Jay Caspian Kang, New Yorker, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of column
Noun
  • Nurses form the essential backbone of post-neurosurgery ICU care, providing continuous vigilance and skilled bedside assessment after complex spine and cranial procedures.
    — Richard Menger MD MPA, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026
  • The road was the backbone of Charlotte’s transportation at the time.
    — DJ Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of backbone

Browse Nearby Words

pillaging
pillar
pillars
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Cite this Entry

“Pillar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/pillar. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on pillar

Nglish: Translation of pillar for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about pillar

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