pillars
n. countablen. strong tall posts that hold up a roof or a bridge. You can also use this word to describe the most important parts of an idea or a system.
n. vertical structural members used to support a weight or provide architectural decoration. In an abstract sense, refers to the fundamental principles or essential components of a system or belief.
The roof is held up by four stone pillars.
Education and healthcare are often described as the two main pillars of a successful society.
The architect integrated marble pillars into the facade to evoke classical Greek design while providing the necessary structural integrity for the heavy stone pediment above.
Frequently used metaphorically with 'of' to describe core values, such as 'pillars of the community' or 'pillars of democracy'.