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

Imbibe inside or in the adjoining garden-courtyard where passing gondolas send canal water lapping below the balustrade. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026

There’s similar vintage oomph in this fifth-floor unit, which has chevron parquet floors, iron balustrades, and a slightly formal dining area backed by a wall of mirrors. — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 3 Aug. 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

Built in the 1920s and early 1930s, its historical elements will be restored, including the balustrade railing, the preservation of pylons, towers, and arches, and the refurbishment of the historic light poles of all five bridges, plus the Waverly Dr Bridge over Hyperion Ave. — Julie Sharp, CBS News, 30 Apr. 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