stairwell

noun

stair·​well ˈster-ˌwel How to pronounce stairwell (audio)
: a vertical shaft in which stairs are located

Examples of stairwell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Every toddler sleeping in the stairwells had the right idea. — Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 13 June 2026 In the original space there's a stairwell in the center that goes to the lobby. — Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 30 May 2026 Campbell treated the end of the kitchen cabinetry to counter seating to keep the stairwell open and avoid blocking light. — Jody Garlock, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2026 The man also threw items out the front door at officers who had made their way into the building’s stairwell, Marquez said. — Caleb Lunetta, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for stairwell

Word History

First Known Use

1920, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stairwell was in 1920

Rhymes for stairwell

See All Rhymes for stairwell

Browse Nearby Words

stairway
stairwell
stair wire
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Stairwell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stairwell. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

stairwell

noun
stair·​well -ˌwel How to pronounce stairwell (audio)
: a vertical shaft in which stairs are located

More from Merriam-Webster on stairwell

Nglish: Translation of stairwell for Spanish Speakers

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