Scaffold (noun)

1. An independent temporary platform, typically made of metal or wood, used for working at a height, for example, in building or painting.
2. A raised platform in a public place, such as a marketplace or town square, used for public speeches, hanging criminals, etc.

Origin:

Middle english scaffold, from old english scafald, from scaf- scaf + -ald -old.

Examples:

1. He was working on the scaffold to paint the building.
2. The workers assembled the scaffold around the building.
3. The scaffold was made of wood.
4. The scaffold swayed in the wind.
5. The criminal was hanged on the scaffold.