ladder

lad-der · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A structure consisting of a series of bars or steps between two upright lengths of wood, metal, or rope, used for climbing up or down.

  2. 2.

    A series of stages by which progress can be made.

  3. 3.

    (British) A run in stockings or tights where stitches have come undone.

  4. 4.

    (verb) To cause a run in stockings or tights.

Forms

plural: ladders

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    climb the ladder — To advance in one's career or social position.
  • •
    career ladder — A series of job levels from lower to higher.
  • •
    social ladder — Hierarchy of social classes.
  • •
    ladder of success — Metaphor for progressive achievement.

Related words

See also: climb, rung, stairs, steps
Synonyms: stepladder, steps

Etymology

From Old English hlæder, from Proto-Germanic hlaidri, related to hlinian ("to lean"). Cognate with German Leiter.