railing

noun

rail·​ing ˈrā-liŋ How to pronounce railing (audio)
1
: a barrier consisting of a rail and supports
2
: rails
also : material for making rails

Examples of railing in a Sentence

He leaned on the deck's railing and watched the sun set. they had to put a childproof railing on the balcony when the baby started walking
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.
Some perky-looking musical notes, in brass, were affixed to railings. D. T. Max, New Yorker, 15 Sep. 2025 Last but not least, the home features the coziest front porch, complete with eye-catching front and side railings, that can be transformed into the perfect space for unwinding with outdoor furniture, a porch swing, a set of string lights, and a stylish doormat, of course. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 14 Sep. 2025 The Union Jack over Buckingham Palace was lowered to half mast in a sign of respect following the announcement of the duchess’ death, and the traditional framed announcement was placed on the royal residence’s railings. Max Foster, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025 The project will also include ADA-compliant curb ramps, new posts with pedestrian push buttons and posts, pedestrian barricades, protective railings and traffic striping. Karen Billing, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for railing

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of railing was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Railing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/railing. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

railing

noun
rail·​ing ˈrā-liŋ How to pronounce railing (audio)
1
: a barrier (as a fence) consisting of rails and their supports
2
: material for rails

More from Merriam-Webster on railing

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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