Parapet vs. Railing — What's the Difference?

A parapet is a barrier that is an extension of the wall at the edge of a roof, terrace, balcony, walkway or other structure. The word comes ultimately from the Italian parapetto (parare 'to cover/defend' and petto 'chest/breast').

A fence or barrier made of rails

A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a raised structure such as a roof or balcony.

A structure made of a rail, often connecting a series of upright members, that is used as a guard or barrier or for support, as on a balcony or next to a staircase.

An earthen or stone embankment protecting soldiers from enemy fire.

The rail of such a structure.

A low protective wall.

Rails considered as a group.

Part of a perimeter that extends above the roof.

A fence or barrier consisting of one or more horizontal rails and vertical supports.

(military) A fortification consisting of a wall.

Present participle of rail

A low wall, especially one serving to protect the edge of a platform, roof, bridge, or the like.

Expressing reproach; insulting.

A wall, rampart, or elevation of earth, for covering soldiers from an enemy's fire; a breastwork. See Illust. of Casemate.

A barrier made of a rail or of rails, together with vertical supports. The typical railing in the interior of structures or on porches has a horizontal rail near waist height, and multiple vertical supports. Its function is usually to provide a safety barrier at the edge of a verticle drop to prevent falls.

A low wall along the edge of a roof or balcony

Rails in general; also, material for making rails.

Fortification consisting of a low wall

A barrier consisting of a horizontal bar and supports

Material for making rails or rails collectively