banister

noun

ˈba-nə-stər How to pronounce banister (audio)
variants also bannister
Definition of banisternext
as in railing
a protective barrier consisting of a horizontal bar and its supports a much-needed new banister for the rickety staircase

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of banister Ornate banisters and molding customary of the baronial style lay the groundwork, while decor additions like an antique globe bar cart with a compass design on its base provide thoughtful nods that only eagle-eyed fans may notice. — Alison McDermott, Architectural Digest, 19 Feb. 2026 Cheval Blanc Courchevel’s mustard exterior suggests a traditional, Savoyard scene of reindeer rugs and bannisters carved with twee hearts and cowbells inside. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026 The leader of Philadelphia’s Gay Raiders handcuffed himself to a bannister in Independence Hall, by the Liberty Bell. — Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 2 Mar. 2026 Plan your visit to President Lincoln's Cottage At the cottage, visitors are invited to sit on 19th-century chairs and pull themselves up using the original wooden banister, unlike most historic homes. — Michelle Del Rey, USA Today, 3 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for banister
Recent Examples of Synonyms for banister
  1. railing
  2. rail
Noun
  • Plans also call for a rooftop terrace with a hot tub—glass railings ensure an unbroken view—and a series of terraces that step down to a custom swimming pool.
    — Mark David, Robb Report, 4 July 2026
  • Pressed against the ship's railing, the sailors spotted a lighthouse and a water tower through binoculars.
    — Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Definition of railing
Noun
  • Consider the impact of investing even near that number in our existing bus and rail network and the land surrounding those stations.
    — Pete Harrison, Hartford Courant, 6 July 2026
  • Chastain, who lives in Virginia, has proposed many different rail transit plans for the city through petition initiatives, but none have ever become a reality.
    — Dylan Lysen July 6, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026
Definition of rail

Browse Nearby Words

banishments
banister
banisters
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Cite this Entry

“Banister.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/banister. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on banister

Nglish: Translation of banister for Spanish Speakers

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