staircase \ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷\noun Etymology:stair + case 1. a.: the structure containing a stairway : an enclosure for stairs (as of walls or railings) b.: a flight of stairs with the supporting framework, casing, and balusters 2.: something resembling or held to resemble a staircase < the dead stream was an interminable staircase of ledges — Alan Le May > 3.: river 4