# Piers

/ˈpɪɹz/ (US) · /pˈiəz/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/piers
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. structures over water

noun · CEFR B2

more than one pier; long platforms built over the water for walking or for boats.

For teachers: the plural form of pier, denoting multiple structures extending into the sea or a lake, typically used as landing stages or promenades.

- The coastal town is famous for its two long wooden piers that stretch into the ocean.
- Engineers inspected the structural integrity of the Victorian piers following the severe winter storms that battered the coastline.

### 2. architectural supports

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

strong pillars or walls that support a bridge or a heavy roof.

For teachers: multiple solid supports, such as pillars or sections of wall, designed to sustain vertical pressure from a bridge or arch.

- The heavy stone bridge was held up by four massive concrete piers.
- The architect specified reinforced steel for the central piers to ensure the bridge could withstand the weight of modern freight trains.

Teaching tip: In an architectural context, this refers to the support itself rather than the walkway over water.

## Examples

- The children ran along the wooden piers to see the boats.
- The old fishing village is famous for its long stone piers that protect the harbor from heavy waves.
- Architects are redesigning the city's industrial piers to include public parks and walkways, transforming the former shipping hubs into vibrant community spaces.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.