Webster's English Dictionary

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scaffold

scaf.fold \'skaf-*ld also -.o-ld\ n [ME, fr. ONF escafaut, modif. of 
   (assumed) VL cutafalicum, irreg. f]r. Gk kata- cata- + L fala tower 1a: a 
   temporary or movable platform for workmen (as bricklayers, painters,  or 
   miners) to stand or sit on when working at a height above floor or ground 
   1b: a platform on which a criminal is executed (as by hanging or beheading) 
    1c: any platform at a height above ground level  2: a supporting framework