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handrail

noun

hand·​rail ˈhan(d)-ˌrāl How to pronounce handrail (audio)
: a narrow rail for grasping with the hand as a support

Examples of handrail 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.
Toward the other end of the first floor is a grand white stone staircase that connects all three floors, whose golden handrails are created by Goossens — it is also animated by a sculpture of aluminum beads swathed in gold leaf — a site-specific work by the contemporary artist Jean-Michel Othoniel. Denni Hu, Footwear News, 20 Nov. 2025 When her cousin, who broke her neck as a teenager and still relies on handrails for stability, came to visit, Serena realized one of her cabin’s stairs had none. Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 16 Nov. 2025 The off-white exterior and synthetic handrails require less cleaning, for example. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 13 Nov. 2025 This includes upgrades to install handrails to ramps and stairs to meet ADA requirements needed to make Poway’s public facilities accessible for all community members. Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for handrail

Word History

First Known Use

1675, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of handrail was in 1675

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Cite this Entry

“Handrail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/handrail. Accessed 28 Nov. 2025.

Kids Definition

handrail

noun
hand·​rail ˈhan-ˌdrāl How to pronounce handrail (audio)
: a narrow rail for grasping as a support (as on a staircase)

More from Merriam-Webster on handrail

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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