n. A column; a columnar mass of any form, often composed, or having the appearance of being composed, of several shafts engaged in a central core, as is frequent in medieval architecture: by architects often distinguished from column, inasmuch as it may be of any shape in section, and is not subordinated to the rules of classic architecture. See also cuts under latand column.n. A support or supporter; one who or that which sustains or upholds.n. The upright and supporting part of something, as of a table having but one support, or of a candlestick.n. In anatomy and zoology, a pillar-like or columnar structure, part, or organ; a column or columella; a crus: as, the pillar (columella or modiolus) of a spiral shell; the pillars (crura or peduncles) of the brain. See cut under Discophora.n. One of the posts which serve to connect the plates of a clock-movement, and also to keep them the necessary distance apart.n. In the manège, the raised center of the ring or manège-ground around which a horse turns. There are also pillars at regular intervals around the ground.n. A portable emblem in the form of an ornamented column, formerly carried before an ecclesiastical dignitary as typical of his function as a support to the church.n. Something resembling a pillar in appearance.n. A solid mass of coal left either temporarily or permanently to support the roof of a mine.n. In harp-making, the upright post on the side furthest from the player. It is usually hollow, and contains the rods of the pedal-action.n. A frame for supporting tobacco-pipes in a kiln.n. The nipple of a firearm.n. In ship-building, a column which supports a deck-beam in the interior of a vessel.