noun
Architectural term for a railing, handrail, or balustrade, often found on bridges, balconies, or staircases.
橋の高欄にもたれて川を眺めた。
I leaned on the bridge railing and looked at the river.
寺院の階段には精巧な高欄が設けられている。
The temple stairs are fitted with an elaborate balustrade.
noun
Only when written 高欄
Refers specifically to the armrest of a chair; written only with 高欄.
この椅子の高欄は木製で、座り心地が良い。
The armrests of this chair are wooden and comfortable.
Composed of 高 (high) and 欄 (railing, column). The spelling 勾欄 uses 勾 (hook, curve) and 鉤欄 uses 鉤 (hook), both likely reflecting the curved or hooked shape of traditional railings.