pilaster
noun
pi·las·ter
| \ pi-ˈla-stər
, ˈpī-ˌla-
\
, ˈpī-ˌla-
\
Definition of pilaster
: an upright architectural member that is rectangular in plan and is structurally a pier but architecturally treated as a column and that usually projects a third of its width or less from the wall
Illustration of pilaster
1 pilaster
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Examples of pilaster in a Sentence
the rectangular pilasters spaced along the building's facade lend an air of classical grandeur
Recent Examples on the Web
The structure is notable for its exterior Corinthian columns and pilasters. — Jc Reindl, Detroit Free Press, "Gilbert snags downtown Detroit Comerica bank branch for $5M," 6 Feb. 2018 The structure is notable for its exterior Corinthian columns and pilasters. — Jc Reindl, Detroit Free Press, "Gilbert snags downtown Detroit Comerica bank branch for $5M," 6 Feb. 2018 Africa’s future is the new station a short drive away, a yellow-and-white edifice with grand pilasters, arched windows and a broad flagstone square. — Jonathan Kaiman, latimes.com, "Along China’s new Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway, a fast path through Africa for the world's newest superpower," 4 Aug. 2017 One of the majestic houses along the Hudson River, this 1896 Beaux Arts structure (fire destroyed the 1795 original) has a giant portico and tall pilasters and drips with Louis XIV furnishings. — Bryan Miller, Town & Country, "The Hudson Valley: A River Runs Through It," 8 Sep. 2013 The facade has brick and red sandstone from Lake Superior, with a carved terra-cotta lintel and fluted iron pilasters. — Michael Pollak, New York Times, "A Highway’s Starting Line, and a Flemish Firehouse," 8 July 2016 White pilasters rising at intervals set up a pleasing counterpoint to the walnut tracery of the bookshelves holding Neri’s collection. — David Laskin, New York Times, "The Hidden Treasures in Italian Libraries," 13 June 2017These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pilaster.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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More Definitions for pilaster
pilaster
noun
English Language Learners Definition of pilaster
: a rectangular column that is attached to a wall and that is used for decoration or support
See the full definition for pilaster in the English Language Learners Dictionary
pilaster
noun
pi·las·ter
| \ pi-ˈlas-tər
\
\
Medical Definition of pilaster
: an elongated hardened ridge
especially
: a longitudinal bony ridge on the back of the femur