pillar

/'pilə/
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Thân thiện
pillar

A single marble pillar stands in the center of a sunlit courtyard.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A tall, vertical, cylindrical structure: In architecture, a pillar is a tall, vertical, cylindrical structure that stands upright and is used to support a building or other construction.
    • A freestanding vertical structure: A pillar can also be a vertical cylindrical structure standing alone, not supporting anything else, often as a monument or memorial.
    • A prominent supporter: A person who is a main, reliable, and important supporter of something, such as a community or institution.
    • Anything resembling a column: Any object or formation that approximates the tall, narrow shape of a column or tower.
    • A fundamental principle: A basic, essential idea or practice that supports a system of belief or thought.
Examples of Usage
  • Noun (Architectural Support):

    • The ancient temple was supported by massive stone pillars.
    • The roof collapsed when one of the central pillars was damaged.
  • Noun (Freestanding Monument):

    • A marble pillar was erected in the town square to honor the war heroes.
  • Noun (Prominent Supporter):

    • She has been a pillar of the local church for decades.
    • As a dedicated teacher, he is considered a pillar of the school community.
  • Noun (Column-like Shape):

    • A pillar of fire guided the ships at night.
    • In the desert, they saw a tall pillar of sand created by the wind.
  • Noun (Fundamental Principle):

    • Honesty and integrity are the pillars of a good reputation.
    • The three pillars of the company's philosophy are quality, innovation, and service.
Advanced Usage
  • "From pillar to post": To be forced to go from one place or person to another without making any progress; to be harassed or driven around.
    • After the office closed, I was sent from pillar to post trying to find someone who could help me.
Variants and Related Words
  • Pillar-box (n): A tall, cylindrical public mailbox, traditionally painted red in the UK.
    • She posted the letter in the red pillar-box on the corner.
Synonyms
  • Column: A vertical support or structure.
  • Post: An upright pole or support.
  • Mainstay: A chief support or principal reliance.
  • Buttress: A projecting support for a wall or structure; also used figuratively for support.
Related Phrases
  • Pillar of strength: Someone who provides very strong and reliable support, especially during difficult times.
    • My sister was a real pillar of strength for me when I was ill.
Related Idioms
  • Pillar of the community: A person who is an active, respected, and important member of a community.
    • The retired doctor, with his lifelong charity work, is truly a pillar of the community.
pillar

A single marble pillar stands in the center of a sunlit courtyard.

Noun
  1. (architecture) a tall vertical cylindrical structure standing upright and used to support a structure
  2. a vertical cylindrical structure standing alone and not supporting anything (such as a monument)
  3. a prominent supporter
    • he is a pillar of the community
  4. 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
  5. a fundamental principle or practice
    • science eroded the pillars of superstition