variants also bannister
as in railing
a protective barrier consisting of a horizontal bar and its supports a much-needed new banister for the rickety staircase

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of banister After getting down from the banister, Bongolan claimed Combs lifted her higher over the balcony. Liam Quinn, People.com, 4 June 2025 Stairs with an original wood banister rise to the second level, and adjacent to the foyer is a parlor. Angela Serratore, New York Times, 14 May 2025 The original Duluth Central High School, which closed in 1970 due to age and safety conditions, was known for its clock tower, sweeping stairways, chandeliers and iron banisters. Mars King, Twin Cities, 15 Mar. 2025 Almost 14,000 square feet of living space is accented throughout with antiques from the collection of newspaper publisher and Crosby friend William Randolph Hearst, including a 17th-century wood staircase banister, linen fold paneling, and custom furnishings. Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 27 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for banister
Recent Examples of Synonyms for banister
Noun
  • 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
Noun
  • While both tracks of the rail line have since reopened, cleanup at the site will likely last another couple weeks, officials said.
    Kelli Arseneau, jsonline.com, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Land Value Capture and Special Assessment Districts Transportation investments—such as new rail lines, bike lanes, or complete streets—often increase surrounding property values.
    Regina Clewlow, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Banister.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/banister. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

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