pilar
/piˈlaɾ/masculine
The English word pillar is translated into Spanish as pilar.
pilar is a masculine noun used to describe a large post, often used as supporting architecture.
Meaning: large post, often used as supporting architecture (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /piˈlaɾ/.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, Pilar is a common female given name. It is a shortened form of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, referring to a legendary pillar of jasper upon which the Virgin Mary appeared.
- The word pilar shares its roots with the action of grinding or pounding, stemming from the Latin verb pīlāre.
- While pilar describes a supporting post, Spanish speakers often use the word columna for more decorative or classical pillars. Using pilar usually implies a more functional or structural purpose.
Examples in context
- Un gran pilar obstruye la vista al lago.A large pillar obstructs the view of the lake.This sentence is useful for seeing how pilar is used to describe an object obstructing a view.Tatoeba #1918172 by marcelostockle, translation #275531 by CM
- La estructura del edificio descansa sobre numerosas columnas.The building's structure rests on numerous pillars.
- La iglesia fue construida sobre sólidos pilares.The church was built upon sturdy pillars.
- El pilar de piedra es muy antiguo.The stone pillar is very old.
- Hay un pilar de madera en la entrada.There is a wooden pillar at the entrance.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are inspecting a historic building.
- AlejandroMira ese pilar de mármol.Look at that marble pillar.
- MaríaEs impresionante, Alejandro.It is impressive, Alejandro.
- AlejandroParece que sostiene todo el techo.It looks like it holds up the whole roof.
- MaríaSí, es un pilar muy fuerte.Yes, it is a very strong pillar.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pillar” translations and entries pilar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pilar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
