What term is used to describe a pile supported by skin friction alone?

The term used to describe a pile supported by skin friction alone is "Friction." In geotechnical engineering, piles can be classified based on how they transfer their load to the ground. A friction pile relies primarily on the resistance generated by friction between the surface of the pile and the surrounding soil, rather than on the end bearing at the base of the pile. This type of support is especially useful in weak or soft soils where there may not be sufficient bearing capacity from the soil at the tip of the pile.

In contrast, other terms such as "Gravity" refer to loads that are supported by the weight of the structure itself, while "End Bearing" describes a different pile type that relies on the resistance of the soil at the tip to support the load. "Capacitance" is unrelated to pile foundations and pertains to the ability of a capacitor to store electrical charge. Thus, the use of the term "Friction" specifically indicates the mechanics involved when a pile's support is derived solely from the frictional force against the soil.