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 on the East Coast were treated to a uniquely bizarre sight Tuesday morning. — Matthew Cappucci, Washington Post, 25 Aug. 2026 Thanks to a fallen tree limb, and because of the holiday, our shack on Shabbona was without power for four days, or until a replacement riser pole which connects us to the grid was replaced the following Tuesday. — Jerry Shnay, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026 Eric Morris is this tier’s big riser, up three tiers after coming one game away from taking North Texas to the CFP. — Chris Vannini, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026 As a whole, Sfeir said Orange County has shown strong job growth in the last few years, explaining its representation on the list of income risers. — Los Angeles Times, 12 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 1 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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