railing

[ rey-ling ]

noun

1. a fencelike barrier composed of one or more horizontal rails supported by widely spaced uprights; balustrade.
2. banister ( def 2 ).
3. rails collectively.

railing

/ ˈreɪlɪŋ /

noun

1. often plural a fence, balustrade, or barrier that consists of rails supported by posts
2. rails collectively or material for making rails

Word History and Origins

Origin of railing¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; rail ¹ + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

No more swooping in to prevent government shutdowns, which enables the Republicans to keep railing against “fiscal irresponsibility” while avoiding the political consequences.

From Salon

For all of Trump's railing against "unelected bureaucrats" holding political influence, he has now appointed a pair of unelected billionaires to propose changes to the same agencies that regulate and fund their companies.

From Salon

Gyokeres has done things the hard way, railing against doubters throughout his career.

From BBC

As a result, when goes outside she has to bring oven mitts with her in case she is forced to touch metal railings, since the metal will burn her hands.

From Salon

Kiley’s brand is centered on a constant churn of blog posts and dissenting speeches in Congress railing against Democrats and how their policies have hurt California.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• barrier
• fence
• pole
• rail
• rails
• siding