A set of steps leading from one floor or level to another, typically enclosed or having a handrail. A passageway containing stairs.
From Middle English, combining 'stair' (from Old English 'stǣger') and 'way' (from Old English 'weg'). The compound emerged in the 14th century as architecture became more complex.
Stairways have inspired countless metaphors about life's journey and social mobility - from 'climbing the ladder of success' to Led Zeppelin's mystical 'Stairway to Heaven.' Ancient Roman apartments could be six stories high, making stairway design crucial for daily life.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.