Pillar (Noun)
Meaning 1
A fundamental principle or practice; "science eroded the pillars of superstition".
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- Conservation should be the pillar of all development projects to protect the environment.
- Honesty and transparency are the pillars of any successful business.
- The media's exposés eroded the pillars of corruption that had taken hold of the city government.
- The new government's policies were designed to reinforce the pillars of democracy in the country.
- Education remains the pillar upon which any meaningful social change is built.
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
A prominent supporter; "he is a pillar of the community".
Classification
Nouns denoting people.
Examples
- Dr. Johnson was a pillar of our local hospital, known for his tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to patients' care.
- As the long-time president of the charity, she became a pillar of the foundation, guiding it through several major milestones and setbacks.
- Throughout his life, he remained a pillar of his family, always ready to lend a helping hand whenever needed.
- Her selfless acts and generosity have made her a pillar of the community, earning the respect and admiration of all who know her.
- The businessman's philanthropic contributions made him a pillar of the city's arts scene, fostering growth and innovation in local artists.
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Meaning 3
A vertical cylindrical structure standing alone and not supporting anything (such as a monument).
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The ancient city featured a lone pillar honoring its great founder.
- In the city center, a single pillar stood to commemorate a pivotal historical event.
- A grand stone pillar stood atop a hill overlooking the city.
- Travelers encountered an impressive stone pillar along the barren roadside.
- A monumental pillar stood vigilantly at the entrance to the deserted park.
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Meaning 4
(architecture) a tall vertical cylindrical structure standing upright and used to support a structure.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The ancient temple was surrounded by four massive pillars that supported its intricately carved roof.
- Each pillar was carefully crafted to match the others in both size and design.
- The building's exterior was dominated by a series of slender pillars that added a touch of elegance to its facade.
- A single large pillar stood at the center of the mosque, supporting the dome above.
- The pillars that lined the hallway were adorned with intricate carvings and symbols that told the story of the building's history.
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Meaning 5
Anything that approximates the shape of a column or tower; "the test tube held a column of white powder"; "a tower of dust rose above the horizon"; "a thin pillar of smoke betrayed their campsite".
Classification
Nouns denoting two and three dimensional shapes.
Examples
- A tower of red rock rose above the valley floor, attracting hikers from all over the world.
- The firework exploded in a brilliant column of shimmering light that lit up the night sky.
- A narrow pillar of steam escaped from the cracked ground, warning of a hidden underground spring.
- A column of birds soared into the sky, their V-shaped formation a beautiful sight to behold.
- A thin pillar of dust marked the trail left by the horseback riders as they rode off into the distance.