1. (architecture) a tall vertical cylindrical structure standing upright and used to support a structure
   "The ancient Greek temple was supported by massive Doric pillars";
   - column
    
2. A vertical cylindrical structure standing alone and not supporting anything (such as a monument)
   "Nelson's pillar stands in Trafalgar Square";
   - column
    
3. Anything that approximates the shape of a column or tower
   "a thin pillar of smoke betrayed their campsite";
   - column, tower
    
4. A person or organization that is a chief supporter or sustainer of an organization or community
   "he is a pillar of the community";
   - mainstay
    
5. A fundamental principle or practice
   "science eroded the pillars of superstition"

Derived forms: pillars

Type of: admirer, booster, champion, construction, form, friend, principle, protagonist, rule, shape, structure, supporter, upright, vertical

Part of: temple

Encyclopedia: Pillar