Stair

Definition

The term "stair" refers to a single step or tread in a series that forms a staircase, typically used to connect different levels of a building.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɛr/
• Respelling: STAIR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /stɛə(r)/
• Respelling: STAIR

Etymology

The word "stair" originates from Old English "stǣger," meaning "step" or "stair," related to the Proto-Germanic "*stagaraz," meaning "stair, step, or ladder." It shares roots with Old High German "stēga," meaning "ladder."

Derivatives

• Staircase (noun)
• Stairway (noun)
• Stairwell (noun)
• Stairhead (noun)
• Stair-step (noun)

Synonyms

• Step
• Tread
• Riser

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "stair" is commonly used in architectural and everyday contexts to describe steps in a building. For example, "She slipped on the wet stair" or "The mansion's grand stair led to the upper floor."

Related Terms

• Staircase: A set of stairs within a building.
• Stairway: A passage containing a staircase.
• Landing: A flat area at the top or bottom of a staircase.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A single step in a staircase: Refers to one of the individual treads or risers.
  • Example: "The carpenter replaced the broken stair in the staircase."
• A staircase collectively (archaic): Used to refer to an entire set of stairs in older usage.
  • Example: "He ascended the winding stair to the tower."