balustrade

noun

bal·​us·​trade ˈba-lə-ˌstrād 

1

: a row of balusters topped by a rail

2

: a low parapet or barrier

balustraded

ˈba-lə-ˌstrā-dəd 

adjective

Synonyms of balustrade

• railing
• rail

Examples of balustrade in a Sentence

an ornately carved balustrade for the staircase

Recent Examples on the Web

The balustrade was built in Highland Park in the 1920s. — Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 7 Apr. 2026

Accessed via a private lobby, the panoramic owner’s suite forward spans just over 260 square feet and opens to a personal terrace with a glass balustrade that dissolves into the horizon. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 30 Jan. 2026

According to the brothers, the home — despite appearing quite elegant, with its portico, white balustrade, five bedrooms, carved fireplaces and a music room — has long been in decay and would cost millions of dollars to restore. — Eric Adler may 12, Kansas City Star, 12 May 2026

The Cotton Exchange has fanciful touches on the exterior, including faux columns and balustrades, and a fountain at the front of the building, dominated by a gryphon, a mythic creature that is part lion, part eagle. — Jim Halley, AJC.com, 27 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from Italian balaustrata, from balaustro

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for balustrade

• accolade
• ambuscade
• antegrade
• barricade
• cannonade
• cavalcade
• centigrade
• chambermaid
• colonnade
• countertrade
• disobeyed
• escapade

Kids Definition

balustrade

noun

bal·​us·​trade ˈbal-ə-ˌstrād 

: a row of balusters topped by a rail

also : a low wall or barrier