Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Staircase \Stair"case`\, n.
   A flight of stairs with their supporting framework, casing,
   balusters, etc.

         To make a complete staircase is a curious piece of
         architecture.                            --Sir H.
                                                  Wotton.

   {Staircase shell}. (Zo["o]l.)
   (a) Any scalaria, or wentletrap.
   (b) Any species of Solarium, or perspective shell.