What does stairwell mean?
A stairwell is a vertical passageway in a building that connects floors, typically containing stairs and often providing natural light. It is a common feature in many types of buildings, including offices, homes, and public spaces. The term stairwell is often used in formal or informal contexts to refer to this type of passageway. In architectural or design discussions, stairwell is used to describe the design and functionality of the passageway. The word stairwell is often associated with modern architecture and design, but it can also be used to describe older buildings with similar features. Overall, stairwell is a useful term for describing a common feature in many types of buildings.
nounA stairwell is a vertical passageway in a building that connects floors, typically containing stairs and often providing natural light.
- A vertical passageway in a building that connects floors, typically containing stairs and often providing natural light.
"The stairwell in our office building is a beautiful example of modern architecture."
"The stairwell in our office building is a beautiful example of modern architecture."
"The stairwell in the old mansion was narrow and dimly lit."
The plural form stairwells is used to refer to multiple stairwells in a building or complex.
"The new office building has several stairwells that provide access to different floors."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of stairwell
The word stairwell is derived from the words 'stair' and 'well'. The term 'stair' refers to the stairs that are typically found in a stairwell, while 'well' refers to the vertical passageway itself. The term stairwell has been in use since the mid-20th century, and it is believed to have originated in the United States.
Usage notes
Stairwell is typically used in formal or informal contexts to refer to a vertical passageway in a building. It is often used in architectural or design discussions.