stairwell

UK: ˈsteəwel | US: ˈsterwel

Definition

  1. n. a vertical shaft or space in a building containing a staircase.

Structure
stair <steps for ascending/descending>well <shaft or enclosed space>
Etymology

The word "stairwell" combines "stair," derived from Old English stǣger (meaning "steps for climbing"), and "well," from Old English wella (originally "a spring or stream," later extended to mean "an enclosed space"). The term emerged in the 19th century to describe the architectural feature of a staircase enclosed within a vertical shaft, reflecting the functional merging of the two concepts.

Examples

  1. The fire alarm echoed loudly in the narrow stairwell.

  2. She paused on the landing of the stairwell to catch her breath.

  3. The stairwell was dimly lit, making it difficult to see the steps.

  4. Emergency exits must have clearly marked stairwells.

  5. He leaned against the railing in the stairwell, waiting for his friend.