Scaf"fold (?), n. [OF. eschafault, eschafaut, escafaut, escadafaut, F. 'echafaud; probably oiginally the same word as E. & F. catafalque, It. catafafalco. See Catafalque.] 1. A temporary structure of timber, boards, etc., for various purposes, as for supporting workmen and materials in building, for exhibiting a spectacle upon, for holding the spectators at a show, etc.
Pardon, gentles all,
The flat, unraised spirits that have dared
On this unworthy scaffold to bring forth
So great an object.
Shak.
2. Specifically, a stage or elevated platform for the execution of a criminal; as, to die on the scaffold.
That a scaffold of execution should grow a scaffold of coronation.
Sir P. Sidney.
3. Metal. An accumulation of adherent, partly fused material forming a shelf, or dome-shaped obstruction, above the tuyeres in a blast furnace.
© Webster 1913.
Scaf"fold, v. t. To furnish or uphold with a scaffold.
© Webster 1913. | 
