Ceiling: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to the upper interior surface of a room, specifically inside buildings.

• The ceiling in the living room needs to be painted

Refers to something located above or higher up, more often used to describe things in the air or upper levels, not necessarily inside a building.

• The overhead luggage compartments on the airplane are full

Used to refer to the exterior upper covering of a building, protecting it from weather elements.

• The roof of the house was damaged in the storm

A more general term that refers to the highest part or point of something, can be used in various contexts both physical and metaphorical.

• She placed the book on the top shelf
• He is at the top of his class in school

In interior spaces, referring to the upper surface of a room.

• The ceiling needs a fresh coat of paint.
• There was a crack in the ceiling after the earthquake.

Used in various contexts to mean something physically above, often in financial terms or when talking about space.

• Make sure there isn't anything overhead when you climb the ladder.
• The company needs to reduce its overhead costs.

Refers to the outside, top covering of a building that protects against weather.

• The heavy rain damaged the roof.
• We got up on the roof to fix the leak.

General term for the highest part of something, can be used in various contexts.

• She climbed to the top of the mountain.
• Put the lid back on the top of the jar.

Often used to describe the upper boundary of a room or an enclosed space. It can also refer to a limit or cap on something like salary.

• The ceiling in this room is very high.
• The company has set a ceiling on bonuses this year.

Specifically refers to the greatest possible height that something can reach. Often used in contexts such as construction, amusement park rides, or describing physical dimensions.

• The maximum height for this roller coaster is 200 feet.
• We need to consider the maximum height allowed for this structure.