pillar

Anything that approximates the shape of a column or tower.

“a thin pillar of smoke betrayed their campsite”

A vertical cylindrical structure standing alone and not supporting anything (such as a monument).

A prominent supporter.

“he is a pillar of the community”

(architecture) a tall vertical cylindrical structure standing upright and used to support a structure.

A fundamental principle or practice.

“science eroded the pillars of superstition”