society > leisure > the arts > visual arts > architecture > arch > [noun] > parts of > section of pier or wall acting as support (2)
Architecture. A structure, esp. of stone or brick, which supports the lateral thrust of an arch, a bridge, etc.; = abutment, n. 4. Now rare.
Architecture. The masonry or rock which supports the lateral thrust of a bridge, arch, vault, etc.; the part of a valley side against which a dam…