Meaning & Definition of Pillar in English

1. A fundamental principle or practice

• "Science eroded the pillars of superstition"

2. 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"

3. A prominent supporter

• "He is a pillar of the community"

4. A vertical cylindrical structure standing alone and not supporting anything (such as a monument)

5. (architecture) a tall vertical cylindrical structure standing upright and used to support a structure