pier
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a platform built from the shore into the water where boats can stop and people can get on or off.
a structure extending into navigable water for use as a landing place or promenade, typically supported by piles or pillars.
Simple“The ferry pulled up to the pier to let the passengers off.”
In context“The cargo ship was moored at the deep-water pier, where cranes worked through the night to unload the shipping containers.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
a long structure at a beach with shops, games, and places to walk over the sea.
a recreational structure extending from a seaside resort into the sea, often featuring amusements, pavilions, and walkways.
Simple“We spent the afternoon playing games and eating ice cream on the pier.”
In context“The Victorian pier remains the town's primary tourist attraction, housing a vintage theatre and several traditional arcade halls.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
a strong pillar that holds up a bridge.
an intermediate support for the adjacent ends of two bridge spans.
Simple“The bridge has several large stone piers that sit in the middle of the river.”
In context“Engineers inspected the concrete piers for signs of erosion caused by the unusually strong river currents during the spring thaw.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
a heavy square post or pillar that supports a roof, a wall, or a large gate.
a vertical member of a building or structure, often rectangular, used to support an arch, wall, or heavy gate.
Simple“The heavy iron gates were attached to two tall brick piers.”
In context“The cathedral's massive stone piers were designed to distribute the weight of the vaulted ceiling down to the foundation.”
Synonymspostbuttress - 05 B2 Upper Intermediate
a long part of an airport building that leads to the gates where you get on a plane.
a corridor-like extension of an airport terminal building that provides access to aircraft gates.
Simple“Our flight is leaving from Pier B, so we have a long walk ahead of us.”
In context“The airport expansion includes a new pier equipped with twenty additional boarding gates to handle increased international traffic.”
Synonymsconcourseterminal wing