A staircase refers to a set of steps or a series of connected steps that lead from one level to another. It is typically used in buildings, homes and other structures as a means of vertical transportation between floors. The design, shape, size and materials used for constructing the staircase can vary greatly depending on its intended use, style and architectural features of the building it's part of. Staircases come in many different types including straight, spiral, winding or circular, and may have landings at regular intervals to provide rest points during ascent or descent.