01 n. The general and popular term for a firm, upright, insulated support for a superstructure; a pier, column, or post; also, a column or shaft …
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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.
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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.“By day a cloud, by night a pillar of fire.” — Milton.
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3.
A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church.(R. C. Ch.) [Obs.]
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4.
The center of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns.(Man.)