Banister (noun)

A handrail fixed along the side of a staircase, typically with supporting balusters.

Origin:

Late 17th century: from baniste, from old french banniste, from bannir "to banish".

Examples:

1. He grabbed the banister to steady himself.
2. The banister was polished to a shine.
3. She held onto the banister as she climbed the stairs.
4. The banister needed to be repainted.
5. The banister was made of a dark wood and had intricate carvings.