# piling

/ˈpaɪɫɪŋ/ (US) · /pˈaɪlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/piling
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a heavy post or column made of wood, steel, or concrete that is driven into the ground. It provides a strong base for large structures like bridges or tall buildings.

For teachers: a structural support member, such as a column or post, driven into the earth to provide a foundation for a heavy load. Often used in civil engineering to support structures on soft or unstable soil.

## Examples

- The workers are driving the steel piling into the riverbed.
- Engineers discovered that the original wooden piling had rotted, requiring a complete replacement with reinforced concrete.
- The stability of the entire skyscraper depends on the integrity of the deep-sea piling, which must withstand both the immense weight of the tower and the corrosive effects of saltwater.

## Usage notes

- Often used as an uncountable collective noun for a series of supports, or as a countable noun for a single post.

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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.