balustrade

noun

bal·​us·​trade ˈba-lə-ˌstrād How to pronounce balustrade (audio)
1
: a row of balusters topped by a rail
2
: a low parapet or barrier
balustraded adjective

Examples of balustrade in a Sentence

an ornately carved balustrade for the staircase
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.
The addition neither aspires to novelty nor imitates great age, being free of balustrades, pilasters, dentil cornices, and all the other surface frosting that Beaux-Arts architects considered indispensable. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 25 Mar. 2025 Think ornate stuccoes, regal salons, wrought-iron balustrades, and panoramic terraces that offer breathtaking views of Palermo and the verdant Piana dei Colli. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 31 Mar. 2025 The addition neither aspires to novelty nor imitates great age, being free of balustrades, pilasters, dentil cornices, and all the other surface frosting that Beaux-Arts architects considered indispensable. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 25 Mar. 2025 Head upstairs via the marble staircase with a bronze balustrade (or the elevator). Tori Latham, Robb Report, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for balustrade

Word History

Etymology

French, from Italian balaustrata, from balaustro

First Known Use

1644, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of balustrade was in 1644

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Balustrade.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balustrade. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

balustrade

noun
bal·​us·​trade ˈbal-ə-ˌstrād How to pronounce balustrade (audio)
: a row of balusters topped by a rail
also : a low wall or barrier

More from Merriam-Webster on balustrade

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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