Definition

A temporary structure made of wood or metal that supports workers and materials during the construction or repair of buildings.

Example

The workers climbed up the scaffolding to reach the top of the building.

Conversation

Have you seen the new building they're constructing downtown?

Yeah, I noticed they have a lot of scaffolding up already.

It looks like they’re making good progress with the scaffolding in place.

Definitely! It’ll be exciting to see the finished project.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Scaffolding → It is formed from "scaffold" (from Old French *escalfaut*, meaning a temporary structure for support) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "scaffolding" refers to the process or system of using temporary structures to support work on buildings or other constructions.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'temporary structure' ('scaffold') that helps support work being done — that's what scaffolding means.

Visually Confused Words