Plural of pier; structures that extend into water to serve as docks for boats or as recreational areas, or vertical supports holding up a bridge or building.
From Old French piere, related to Latin petra meaning 'stone.' Originally referred to the stone structures built into water. The architectural meaning expanded to include any vertical support column.
Historic piers like the Brighton Pier in England or the Santa Monica Pier represent entire eras of engineering and social history. Many famous piers also became centers of entertainment, from dance halls to amusement arcades.
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