staircase n 1: a way of access (upward and downward) consisting of a set of steps [syn: {stairway}, {staircase}]
Staircase \Stair"case`\ (st[^a]r"k[=a]s`), n. A flight of stairs with their supporting framework, casing, balusters, etc. [1913 Webster] To make a complete staircase is a curious piece of architecture. --Sir H. Wotton. [1913 Webster] {Staircase shell}. (Zool.) (a) Any scalaria, or wentletrap. (b) Any species of {Solarium}, or perspective shell. [1913 Webster]
jaggies staircase staircasing <graphics> /jag'eez/ (Or "staircase") The "staircase" effect observable when an edge (especially a linear edge of very shallow or steep slope) is rendered on a {bitmap display} (as opposed to a {vector display}). The effect is even more pronounced when a bitmap image or text in a bitmap font is enlarged. {Outline fonts} and {anti-aliasing} are two techniques used to solve this problem with text. [{Jargon File}] (1997-12-01)