\Bal"us*ter\, n. [F. balustre, It. balaustro, fr. L.
balaustium the flower of the wild pomegranate, fr. Gr.
balay`stion; -- so named from the similarity of form.]
(Arch.)
A small column or pilaster, used as a support to the rail of
an open parapet, to guard the side of a staircase, or the
front of a gallery. See {Balustrade}. [Corrupted into
{banister}.]