What is a short squat column commonly known as?

A short squat column is commonly referred to as a "pier." In construction and structural engineering, a pier serves as a support structure, often used to bear vertical loads such as those from walls or roofs. The design of a pier allows it to withstand compressive forces, making it ideal for supporting heavier loads on foundations or where larger columns may not fit.

Piers are typically thicker and shorter compared to other types of vertical structural supports, which is why they are often associated with short squat columns. They are also frequently found in contexts such as foundation work, providing stability under structures.

In contrast, while a pillar can also serve a similar structural purpose, it is generally taller and more slender. A beam is a horizontal structural element designed to support loads across spans. A post is a vertical support, but it does not specifically refer to the short squat design characteristic of a pier.