(n): a raised horizontal surface
(n): (architecture) a vertical supporting structure (as a portion of wall between two doors or windows)
(n): any device that bears the weight of another thing
(n): a support for two adjacent bridge spans
(n): any device that bears the weight of another thing
-- Kingstown pier, Stephen said. Yes, a disappointed bridge. The words troubled their gaze.
-- How, sir? Comyn asked. A bridge is across a river.
Joyce, Ulysses, 2