Ladder: meaning, definitions and examples

A portable device with steps used for climbing up or down to reach higher or lower points. Often used in construction or household settings.

• She used a ladder to change the light bulb in the ceiling
• The worker climbed the ladder to fix the roof

Individual steps or a small set of fixed stairs outside or inside a building, such as an entrance or garden pathway.

• He sat on the front steps of his house
• The garden steps were slippery after the rain

A set of fixed stairs inside a building, typically with handrails, used for moving between floors.

• They walked up the grand staircase to reach the gallery
• The staircase in her house is made of wood

A mechanical moving staircase that carries people between floors of a building, commonly found in shopping malls, airports, and subway stations.

• They took the escalator to the second floor of the mall
• The escalator at the airport was temporarily out of service

Often used metaphorically to describe a series of steps or levels by which someone can progress, typically in a career or skill development.

• She quickly moved up the corporate ladder.
• Climbing the ladder of success requires dedication.

Refers to a system or organization in which people or groups are ranked one above the other according to status or authority.

• In the company's hierarchy, managers report to the directors.
• The social hierarchy in medieval times was very rigid.

Used to describe the ordering or grading of people or things based on particular criteria, often in a competitive setting.

• The school is known for its high academic ranking.
• Player rankings are updated every week in the tournament.

Refers to the act of being raised in rank or position, often in a job setting. Can also refer to efforts to publicize and raise awareness of products or events.

• After three years of hard work, she finally got her promotion.
• The promotion for the new movie was very effective.

Typically used to describe a physical tool for climbing up and down, or metaphorically to describe a series of steps or levels in a structured way, such as career advancement.

• I need a ladder to reach the top shelf.
• He is climbing the corporate ladder quickly.

Describes forward movement towards a goal, improvement, or development over time. Can apply to personal goals, projects, societal development, and more. Usually has a positive connotation.

• She made significant progress in her studies this semester.
• The construction of the new bridge is progressing smoothly.

Refers to an increase or addition, especially in a series or in a step-by-step manner. Often used in formal or technical contexts, such as salary adjustments, scientific measurements, or programming.

• The employees received a salary increment after their annual review.
• Adjust the volume in small increments to find the perfect level.

Used to describe movement forward, either in physical space or metaphorically in terms of progress or development. Can also refer to providing a payment or service beforehand.

• The troops began their advance towards the enemy lines.
• Her skills advanced rapidly after taking the course.