part of a staircase crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "part of a staircase" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of all known solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "part of a staircase crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
STEP: A single rise and tread of a staircase.
5 Letters
TREAD: The horizontal surface of a step on which a person walks.
5 Letters
RISER: The vertical board forming the front of a step, connecting two treads.
5 Letters
NEWEL: The main post at the foot or top of a staircase, supporting the handrail.
7 Letters
LANDING: A flat area at the top or bottom of a staircase, or between flights of stairs.
7 Letters
RAILING: A barrier consisting of a rail and posts, used as a guard beside a staircase.
8 Letters
BALUSTER: A short pillar or column that supports a handrail, forming part of a balustrade.
8 Letters
BANISTER: The handrail of a staircase with its supporting balusters or newel posts.
8 Letters
STRINGER: A long, horizontal piece of timber or steel supporting the treads and risers of a staircase.
More About "part of a staircase crossword clue"
Staircases are fundamental architectural features, and understanding their components can be a great asset for crossword enthusiasts. Beyond the basic steps, the various parts play distinct roles in both functionality and aesthetics. From the foundational 'stringer' that supports the entire structure to the decorative 'balusters' and 'newel' posts that form the 'banister', each element contributes to a staircase's design and safety.
When you encounter a clue like "part of a staircase," remember that the answer could refer to anything from the structural elements (like a 'riser' or 'tread') to the safety features (like a 'railing' or 'landing'). The exact answer often hinges on the number of letters required by the puzzle and the context provided by intersecting clues. Familiarity with these terms can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
Architectural terms are common in crosswords because they are precise and widely understood within their context. A 'landing', for instance, is not just a 'floor' but a very specific transitional area within a staircase. Paying attention to these subtle distinctions can help you pinpoint the correct answer when multiple options seem plausible.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required. For "part of a staircase," a 4-letter answer is likely 'STEP', while an 8-letter answer could be 'BALUSTER' or 'BANISTER'.
- Think Function and Structure: Does the clue imply a functional part (e.g., 'TREAD', 'RISER') or a more structural/decorative element (e.g., 'NEWEL', 'BALUSTER')? This distinction can narrow down possibilities.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Crosswords are about connections. If you have an intersecting clue, use those known letters to confirm or eliminate potential staircase parts. This is often the most reliable way to verify an answer.
- Broad vs. Specific: Recognize if the clue is asking for a general part (like 'STEP') or a very specific component (like 'STRINGER'). The more specific the term, the less likely it is to be a common, short word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for "part of a staircase" in crosswords?
The most common answers often depend on the letter count, but 'STEP' (4 letters) and 'TREAD' (5 letters) are very frequently seen due to their fundamental nature and common usage.
How do I know if the clue means 'baluster' or 'banister'?
'Baluster' refers to a single vertical post, while 'banister' refers to the entire assembly of the handrail, newel posts, and balusters. If the clue implies a single, smaller component, 'baluster' is likely. If it refers to the whole railing system, 'banister' is more fitting. The letter count will also be a key differentiator.
Are there any obscure parts of a staircase often used in crosswords?
Sometimes, more obscure terms like 'STRINGER' (the supporting beam) or 'NOSING' (the front edge of a tread) might appear, especially in more challenging puzzles. If common answers don't fit, consider researching less common architectural terms related to staircases.