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

At the main residence, a grand double-height foyer opens to the interiors, where bright white walls contrast with dark wood floors and balustrades. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2026

Its ornate balustrade carvings glisten under a quiet, steady rain. — Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 16 Aug. 2026

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

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