Pfeiler

pillar, pier

noun PFY-ler Rare

Origin: from Latin pila

Also means

mainstay (figurative)

Usage Note

Pfeiler is a freestanding support, typically rectangular, as opposed to the round Säule. Bridges rest on Brückenpfeiler, and a person can be ein Pfeiler der Gemeinschaft.

Examples

"Die Brücke ruht auf vier mächtigen Pfeilern."

Natural Translation

The bridge rests on four mighty piers.

Literal Translation

The bridge rests on four mighty pillars.

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