tier Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a relative position or degree of value in a graded group
    grade; level.
    • lumber of the highest grade
  2. noun any one of two or more competitors who tie one another
    • noun a worker who ties something
      tier up.
      • noun something that is used for tying
        • the sail is fastened to the yard with tiers
      • noun one of two or more layers one atop another
        • tier upon tier of huge casks
        • a three-tier wedding cake

      WordNet

      Ti"er noun
      Definitions
      1. One who, or that which, ties.
      Ti"er noun
      Etymology
      See Tire a headdress.
      Definitions
      1. A chold's apron covering the upper part of the body, and tied with tape or cord; a pinafore. Written also tire.
      Tier noun
      Etymology
      Perhaps fr. OF. tire, F. tire; probably of Teutonic origin; cf. OHG. ziari ornament, G. zier, AS. tir glory, tiér row, rank. But cf. also F. tirer to draw, pull; of Teutonic origin. Cf. Attire, v. t., Tire a headdress, but also Tirade.
      Definitions
      1. A row or rank, especially one of two or more rows placed one above, or higher than, another; as, a tier of seats in a theater.

      Webster 1913