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banister

American  
[ban-uh-ster] / ˈbæn ə stər /
Also bannister

noun

  1. a baluster.

  2. Sometimes banisters. the balustrade of a staircase.


Etymology

Origin of banister

First recorded in 1660–70; apparently by dissimilation from earlier barrister, alteration of baluster, perhaps by association with bar 1

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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Banister says the Rochester foundation and others also allow them.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

“We honor donor requests, but our deep knowledge offers them a value proposition,” says Simeon Banister, CEO of the Rochester Area Community Foundation, a New York-based DAF sponsor with $720 million in assets.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

The Pirates sent Banister back down and called up Tom Prince, who went on to spend 17 seasons in the majors.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2025

Banister took over for Lovullo, and Oakland had the potential tying run at the plate against Miguel Castro.

From Washington Times • May 16, 2023

John Banister, the son, was educated in England, and bred to the law at the Temple.

From History of the Colony and Ancient Dominion of Virginia by Campbell, Charles