newel post

American  

noun

1. a post supporting one end of a handrail at the top or bottom of a flight of stairs.

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newel post British  

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: newel.  the post at the top or bottom of a flight of stairs that supports the handrail

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Etymology

Origin of newel post

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

However, the newel post and railing had been replaced during a previous renovation and had a different stain that had yellowed over time, resulting in a kind of Franken-staircase.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 25, 2023

The stairs that lead up to the second floor have an unusual handrail and newel post, together resembling a rolled-up piece of paper that has been partially unfurled.

From Washington Post • Mar. 25, 2022

With bare feet, he balanced on the lower lip of the banister and swiveled around the newel post; proving that even with his IQ, there’s still time to play.

From Washington Times • Jan. 18, 2016

The walls of the semicircular stairway are faced in glazed terra cotta all the way to the ceiling, the newel post covered with stars and a shimmering sunburst.

From New York Times • Sep. 22, 2011

Ishmael put his hand on the newel post at the bottom of the stairway, then removed it and shone the flashlight beam upward.

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson