pier

Etymology

From Middle English pere (“bridge pillar”), from Medieval Latin pera, from Old Northern French pira (“breakwater”), from Vulgar Latin *petricus, from Latin petra, from Greek πέτρα (pétra, “stone”).

noun

1. A raised platform built from the shore out over water, supported on piles; used to secure, or provide access to shipping; a jetty.
   Your boat is docked at the pier.
2. A similar structure, especially at a seaside resort, used to provide entertainment.
   There is a gaming arcade on the pier.
   Ryde Pier's claim to fame is being the world's oldest seaside pleasure pier, with construction starting in 1813. March 22 2023, Paul Clifton, “Network News: Island Line to reopen to Ryde Pier in June... possibly”, in RAIL, number 979, page 24
3. A structure supporting the junction between two spans of a bridge.
   The force of the explosion demolished one pair of piers and two spans of the bridge crashed down into the river on top of the barges. 1961 January, “Talking of Trains: The Severn Bridge disaster”, in Trains Illustrated, page 5
4. (architecture) A rectangular pillar, or similar structure, that supports an arch, wall or roof, or the hinges of a gate.