Jetty vs. Pier: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sumera Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Updated on October 2, 2023
A jetty is a structure projecting into water to influence currents and protect shores; a pier is a structure extending from land over water, typically used for docking boats.
Key Differences
Jetty is a structure that projects into the water primarily to influence water currents and protect shores from erosion. Pier, on the other hand, is built extending from the land into the water, mainly for purposes like docking boats or providing a walkway.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Jetty often serves to protect harbors and coasts by altering tidal flows and reducing erosion. Conversely, a pier’s central function is usually to provide access to boats, serve as a fishing spot, or offer a place to enjoy the seascape.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Constructed from various materials like wood, steel, or concrete, a jetty is typically narrower and longer. In contrast, a pier may be wide and can even support buildings and amusement rides, demonstrating its diverse uses in comparison to a jetty.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
In terms of placement, a jetty is usually found at the mouth of rivers or harbors. A pier, however, is typically found in resort towns and coastal cities, underscoring their differing roles in water-based infrastructures.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Comparison Chart
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Jetty and Pier Definitions
Jetty
A landing stage or small pier used primarily for mooring boats.
We tied our boat to the jetty before exploring the island.
Harlon Moss
Oct 02, 2023
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Pier
A walkway over the water for pedestrian use.
The newly constructed pier offers stunning views of the sunset.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 02, 2023
Jetty
A structure designed to protect a coastline from erosion.
The new jetty effectively reduced the erosion of the shoreline.
Harlon Moss
Oct 02, 2023
Pier
A place of amusement and recreation.
The amusement park on the pier was bustling with excited visitors.
Janet White
Oct 02, 2023
Jetty
A structure extending into a sea or river to influence the current.
The small boat maneuvered alongside the jetty.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Pier
A structure built over the water as a mooring place for boats.
Fishermen unloaded their catch at the pier after a long day at sea.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
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Jetty
A construction used to deflect water currents.
The jetty was built to protect the harbor from strong currents.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Pier
A platform supported by pillars or girders, leading out from the shore.
Tourists strolled along the pier, enjoying the ocean breeze.
Harlon Moss
Oct 02, 2023
Jetty
A structure, such as a pier, that projects into a body of water to influence the current or tide or to protect a harbor or shoreline from storms or erosion.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
A platform extending from a shore over water and supported by piles or pillars, used to secure, protect, and provide access to ships or boats.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
A pillar, generally rectangular in cross section, supporting an arch or roof.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Jetty
A structure of wood or stone extended into the sea to influence the current or tide, or to protect a harbor or beach.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Jetty
(architecture) A part of a building that jets or projects beyond the rest, and overhangs the wall below.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
A raised platform built from the shore out over water, supported on piles; used to secure, or provide access to shipping; a jetty.
Your boat is docked at the pier.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
A similar structure, especially at a seaside resort, used to provide entertainment.
There is a gaming arcade on the pier.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
(architecture) A rectangular pillar, or similar structure, that supports an arch, wall or roof, or the hinges of a gate.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Jetty
A part of a building that jets or projects beyond the rest, and overhangs the wall below.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
Any detached mass of masonry, whether insulated or supporting one side of an arch or lintel, as of a bridge; the piece of wall between two openings.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Jetty
A structure of wood or stone extended into the sea to influence the current or tide, or to protect a harbor; a mole; as, the Eads system of jetties at the mouth of the Mississippi River.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
A platform built out from the shore into the water and supported by piles; provides access to ships and boats
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Pier
(architecture) a vertical supporting structure (as a portion of wall between two doors or windows)
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Jetty
A protective structure of stone or concrete; extends from shore into the water to prevent a beach from washing away
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2022
Jetty
A narrow structure built out from the shore.
Fishermen lined the jetty, casting their lines into the water.
Sara Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Pier
A structure projecting into the water from the land to provide a landing place for ships.
The cruise ship docked at the pier early in the morning.
Janet White
Oct 02, 2023
FAQs
What is a jetty?
A jetty is a structure projecting into water to influence currents and protect shores.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
How does a pier differ from a jetty?
A pier is a structure extending from land over water, typically used for docking boats, while a jetty influences water currents and protects shores.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Are jetties used for docking boats?
Jetties can be used for mooring boats, but their primary purpose is to influence currents and protect shores.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Can a jetty serve as a walkway?
While primarily functional, some jetties can be traversed.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 02, 2023
Do piers alter water currents?
Piers are not designed to alter water currents; their main purpose is to serve as a docking place or walkway.
Harlon Moss
Oct 02, 2023
Are buildings constructed on piers?
Yes, some piers can support buildings and are used for recreational or commercial purposes.
Janet White
Oct 02, 2023
What are jetties made of?
Jetties are typically made of wood, steel, or concrete.
Harlon Moss
Oct 02, 2023
Is a jetty wider than a pier?
Typically, jetties are narrower and longer compared to piers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Are piers primarily protective structures?
Piers are not primarily protective; they are mainly for docking boats and providing walkways.
Sara Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Are jetties permanent structures?
Jetties can be permanent or temporary, depending on their construction and purpose.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Where are jetties commonly found?
Jetties are usually located at the mouths of rivers and harbors.
Janet White
Oct 02, 2023
Can people walk on a pier?
Yes, piers are often designed to allow pedestrian access.
Sara Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Can a jetty protect harbors?
Yes, jetties are constructed to protect harbors by influencing tidal flows.
Sara Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Do jetties offer recreational opportunities?
Jetties are more functional but can offer opportunities for fishing and sightseeing.
Janet White
Oct 02, 2023
Can piers have amusement rides?
Yes, some piers host amusement rides and attractions.
Sara Rehman
Oct 02, 2023
Can jetties be made from concrete?
Yes, concrete is a common material used to construct jetties.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Can piers be located in rivers?
Yes, piers can be built on riverbanks or extend from them into rivers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Are piers functional or recreational?
Piers can be both functional, serving as docking places, and recreational, offering spaces to stroll or fish.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 02, 2023
Do all piers extend over the ocean?
No, piers can extend over rivers, lakes, or any body of water and are not exclusive to oceanic locations.
Harlon Moss
Oct 02, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
