riser

noun

ris·​er ˈrī-zər How to pronounce riser (audio)
Synonyms of risernext
1
: one that rises (as from sleep)
an early riser
2
: the upright member between two stair treads
3
: a stage platform on which performers are placed for greater visibility
4
: a vertical pipe (as for water or gas) or a vertical portion of an electric wiring system
5
: one of the straps that connects a parachutist's harness with the shroud lines

Examples of riser in a Sentence

The school choir stood on the risers for the concert.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Early risers, meanwhile, will be treated to a spectacular view of Jupiter and Mars, as the two solar system planets line up either side of the constellation Cancer, the crab. — Anthony Wood, Space.com, 31 Aug. 2026 Tickets with picnic-style general admission seating at CLARA Studios will cost $30 per person, while dedicated riser spots go for $60 per person. — Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 31 Aug. 2026 Fall is here and early risers and night owls know that when the sun is down, feet get chilly. — Annie Blackman, InStyle, 29 Aug. 2026 Stairs Stair risers and treads have been a popular spot for adding whimsy and color for the last few decades, but don’t overlook the handrails and balusters. — Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for riser

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of riser was in the 15th century

Rhymes for riser

See All Rhymes for riser

Browse Nearby Words

rise of floor
riser
riser plate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Riser.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riser. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

riser

noun
ris·​er ˈrī-zər How to pronounce riser (audio)
1
: one that rises (as from sleep)
an early riser
2
: the upright board between two stair treads

More from Merriam-Webster on riser

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for riser

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