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

See Examples For:

newel post

Twin elephants carry newel post lamps on the staircase.

From New York Times ● Jun. 7, 2023

She paints portraits of people’s homes, focusing on one modest detail — a doorstop, a newel post or the fringed trim of a curtain.

From Seattle Times ● Mar. 29, 2022

The interior of the Gaines street building retains much of its original layout as well as woodwork such as the central staircase with its newel post and spindles.

From Washington Times ● Aug. 1, 2020

It has pine floors, large windows, period trim and stairs with a carved wooden newel post.

From Washington Post ● Sep. 26, 2018

At the newel post Janie whirled around and for the space of a thought she was lit up like a transfiguration.

From "Their Eyes Were Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston