scaffolding

noun

scaf·​fold·​ing ˈska-fəl-diŋ 

-ˌfōl-

1

: a system of scaffolds

… photographers were allowed, three at a time, to ascend the elaborate scaffolding …

—Eric Scigliano

also : material for scaffolds

2

: a support system or structure likened to a system of scaffolds

… in his readings and talks with authors, he is seeking theoretical scaffolding for his actions …

—John F. Dickerson

especially, education : a system or framework of support provided by an instructor to help a student reach the next level of learning

By identifying the next skills just above the child's current skill level, then providing scaffolding (or assistance) in a way that helps the child display the identified skills accurately, and then fading out the need for scaffolding, you can help a child to learn new things and become more independent.

—Heather Gilmore

Teachers should look for tools that help them easily adjust instructional scaffolding from assignment to assignment and from student to student—allowing them to meet students where they are as they learn to write for authentic audiences.

—Troy Hicks

Examples of scaffolding in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One tower currently stands wrapped in scaffolding. —Kansas City Star, 14 Nov. 2025

The black shroud and scaffolding that has surrounded the lighthouse during the restoration has been removed, leaving a fresh coat of bright white paint in place of the previous lead paint layer, as well as a more robust structure ensuring the landmark remains stable for future generations. —Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 11 Nov. 2025

Possible future applications of the device include the production of three-dimensional scaffolding-like structures used to support the growth of artificial ligaments or veins. —New Atlas, 5 Nov. 2025

Video footage of the incident shows that the home's interior scaffolding is now exposed, and the top-floor window can be seen hanging on a hinge after being blown out by the blaze. —Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 1 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

scaffolding

noun

scaf·​fold·​ing ˈskaf-əl-diŋ 

-ˌōl-

1

: a system of scaffolds

2

: materials for scaffolds