# parapet

/ˈpɛɹəˌpɛt/ (US) · /pˈæɹəpɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/parapet
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

a low wall or fence that runs along the edge of a roof, bridge, or balcony. It is usually there to keep people safe and to stop things from falling off.

For teachers: a low protective wall or railing running along the edge of a roof, bridge, or balcony. Often serves as a safety barrier or a decorative feature in architecture.

## Examples

- The workers stood on the parapet to look at the city below.
- The architect designed a decorative parapet to hide the mechanical equipment on the roof from street view.
- During the restoration of the historic bridge, engineers reinforced the stone parapet to ensure it could withstand the increased foot traffic and modern safety standards.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.