'baluster' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'balaustro', where the root referred to the 'pomegranate flower'.

'baluster' came into English via French ('balustre') and Italian ('balaustro') in the 17th century, ultimately becoming the modern English word 'baluster'.

Initially it referred to the 'pomegranate flower' (or a shape like the flower), but over time it evolved to mean 'a short decorative column or post' used to support a rail.