A bannister is a term that refers to a railing or a handrail that is used to support people as they ascend or descend stairs. It is an essential component of any staircase, providing stability and safety to the user. The word bannister is commonly used in the UK, while in the United States, it is referred to as a banister.
Definitions
A bannister is defined as a handrail or a railing that is fixed to a staircase, balcony, or other elevated platform to provide support to people as they move up or down. It is usually made of wood, metal, or glass and can be designed in various styles and shapes, depending on the architecture of the building.
Origin
The word bannister is derived from the Old French word “banestre,” which means a small bar or a railing. It was first used in the English language in the 17th century, and over time, it has become a standard term used to describe the handrail of a staircase.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of bannister is consistent across various dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a handrail fixed to a staircase, balcony, or other elevated platform.” The Merriam-Webster dictionary describes it as “a handrail with its supporting posts.” The Collins English Dictionary defines it as “a railing at the side of a staircase or balcony to prevent people from falling.”
Associations
The bannister is associated with safety, support, and stability. It is an essential component of any staircase, providing a means for people to move up and down without the risk of falling. It is also associated with architecture and design, as the bannister can be designed in various styles and shapes to complement the overall aesthetic of the building.
Synonyms
The synonyms of bannister include handrail, railing, banister, balustrade, and guardrail. These terms are used interchangeably to describe the same component of a staircase.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of bannister, as it is a specific term used to describe a particular component of a staircase. However, the absence of a bannister can be considered an antonym, as it would imply a lack of safety and support.
The same root words
The word bannister has no root words, as it is a standalone term that has evolved over time.
Example Sentences
- “Hold onto the bannister as you come down the stairs.”
- “The bannister in the old mansion was made of wrought iron and had intricate designs.”
- “The child stumbled on the stairs, but the bannister prevented him from falling.”
- “The architect designed a modern bannister to complement the minimalist style of the staircase.”
- “The building code requires a bannister on all stairs to ensure the safety of the occupants.”