PIL'LAR, n. [L. pila, a pile, a pillar, a mortar and pestle. The L. pila denotes a heap, or things thrown, put or driven together.] Literally, a pile or heap; hence, 1. A kind or irregular column round an insulate, but deviating from the proportions of a just column. Pillars are either too massive or too slender for regular architecture; they are not restricted to any rules, and their parts and proportions are arbitrary. A square pillar is a massive work, called also a pier or piedroit, serving to support arches. &c.2. A supporter; that which sustains or upholds; that on which some superstructure rests. Gal.2.3. A monument raised to commemorate any person or remarkable transaction. And Jacob set a pillar on her grave. Gen.35. 2 Sam.18.4. Something resembling a pillar; as a pillar of salt. Gen.19. So a pillar of a cloud, a pillar of fire. Ex.13.5. Foundation; support. Job.9.6. In ships, a square or round timber fixed perpendicularly under the middle of the beams for supporting the decks.7. In the manege, the center of the volta, ring or manege ground, around which a horse turns. There are also pillars on the circumference or side, placed at certain distances by two and two.
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