Term: banister

A banister is the handrail of a staircase, typically supported by a series of vertical posts called balusters or spindles. It provides safety and support for people using the stairs. The term "banister" can refer to just the handrail or the entire assembly of handrail, balusters, and newel posts. Banisters are commonly made from wood, metal, or glass and are both functional and decorative elements in stair design.