STAIRCASE Meaning and
Definition
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A staircase, also known as a stairway or simply stairs, is a structure designed to facilitate vertical movement between different levels of a building or structure. It typically consists of a series of steps or treads that are connected by risers, forming a continuous ascending or descending pathway.
Staircases serve as a critical means of vertical circulation within buildings, allowing individuals to move between floors or levels conveniently and safely. They are commonly constructed from materials such as wood, stone, metal, or a combination of these, depending on the desired aesthetic, usage, and building regulations.
The design of staircases can vary greatly, ranging from simple and functional to grand and ornate, reflecting the architectural style and purpose of the building. They can be straight, spiral, curved, or even have multiple landings, depending on the available space and intended use.
Safety is a vital aspect of staircase design, with considerations including adequate width, proper height between steps, effective handrails or banisters, and appropriate lighting. These factors aim to prevent accidents and ensure ease of use for individuals of all ages and physical abilities.
Aside from their functional role, staircases often serve as architectural focal points or impressive design features in buildings. They can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space and contribute to the overall ambiance and style.
In summary, a staircase is a structural element designed to enable vertical movement between various levels or floors of a building, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes while prioritizing safety and accessibility.
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A series of reactions which follow one another in progressively increasing or decreasing intensity, so that the chart shows a continuous rise or fall.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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An enclosed series of steps leading from one part of a building to another; below-stairs, in the basement or lower part of a house; up-stairs, in the higher or better rooms; the bedrooms.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for STAIRCASE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for STAIRCASE
Etymology of STAIRCASE
The word "staircase" comes from the combination of two words: "stair" and "case".
The Middle English word "stair", derived from the Old English word "stæger", originally referred to a single step or flight of steps. It is believed to have been derived from the Old Norse word "stiga" meaning "to go". Over time, "stair" came to refer to a series of steps leading from one level to another.
The word "case" comes from the Old French word "casse" meaning "container" or "chest". In this context, "case" referred to a frame or support structure that enclosed or housed something. When combined with "stair", it formed "staircase", referring to a container or structure that holds the steps leading from one floor to another.
Idioms with the word STAIRCASE
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staircase wit
Staircase wit refers to the phenomenon when a person thinks of a clever or witty response or remark only after a conversation or situation has ended, particularly when one is already on the stairs or leaving the scene. It refers to a delayed witty comeback that comes to one's mind too late to be used effectively in the original conversation or situation.
Similar spelling words for STAIRCASE
- STORCH,
- straker,
- Strick,
- strictness,
- stricker,
- starchless,
- striker,
- stearic acid,
- stair-carpet,
- stricture,
- Strickler,
- storck,
- sterculia,
- Stricklen,
- Starck,
- stearic,
- strict,
- straka,
- starchy,
- strickle,
- starch,
- stricken,
- Starcher,
- stairs.
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