Category:Pier

Pier, n. Etym: [oe. pere, of. piere a stone, f. pierre, fr. L. petra, Gr. Petrify.]

1. (arch.) (a) any detached mass of masonry, whether insulated or supporting one Side of an arch or lintel, as of a bridge; the piece of wall between Two openings. (b) any additional or auxiliary mass of masonry used to stiffen a Wall. See buttress.

2. A projecting wharf or landing place. Abutment pier, the pier of a Bridge next the shore; a pier which by its strength and stability Resists the thrust of an arch. -- pier glass, a mirror, of high and narrow shape, to be put up Between windows. -- pier table, a table made to stand between windows.