WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Pil"lar
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [OE. pilerF. pilier, LL. pilare, pilarium, pilarius, fr. L. pila a pillar. See Pile a heap.]
Definition : 1. The general and popular term for a firm, upright, insulated support for a superstructure; a pier, column, or post; also, a column or shaft not supporting a superstructure, as one erected for a monument or an ornament. Jacob set a pillar upon her grave. Gen. xxxv. 20. The place . . . vast and proud, Supported by a hundred pillars stood. Dryden.

2. Figuratively, that which resembles such a pillar in appearance, character, or office; a supporter or mainstay; as, the Pillars of Hercules; a pillar of the state. "You are a well-deserving pillar." Shak. By day a cloud, by night a pillar of fire. Milton.

3. (R. C. Ch.)

Defn: A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church. [Obs.] Skelton.

4. (Man.)

Defn: The center of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns. From pillar to post, hither and thither; to and fro; from one place or predicament to another; backward and forward. [Colloq.] -- Pillar saint. See Stylite. -- Pillars of the fauces. See Fauces, 1.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913

Pronunciation : Pil"lar
Part of Speech : a.
Definition : Defn: Having a support in the form of a pillar, instead of legs; as, a pillar drill.

(Mach.)
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913