[a. F. balustrade, f. balustre BALUSTER, after It. balaustrata, Sp. balaustrada.] A row of balusters, surmounted by a rail or coping, forming an ornamental parapet or barrier along the edge of a terrace, balcony, etc.
1644. Evelyn, Mem. (1857), I. 96. A terrace at each side having rustic uncut balustrades.
1749. Lady Montague, Lett., 48, III. 82. The magnificent bath … circled by a marble balustrade.
1820. Keats, St. Agnes, xxii. Her faltering hand upon the balustrade, Old Angela was feeling for the stair.
1870. F. Wilson, Ch. Lindisf., 102. The altar rail is a turned balustrade.
fig. 1829. Scott, Anne of G., ii. ‘My arm,’ she said, ‘is but a slight balustrade.’
