A structure consisting of a series of steps or rungs between two upright lengths of wood, metal, or rope, used for climbing up or down something. noun
He used a ladder to reach the top shelf.
The firefighters quickly climbed the ladder to rescue the cat from the tree.
A series of ascending stages by which someone or something can progress or advance. noun
She climbed the corporate ladder to become the CEO of the company.
In the game, players must climb the ladder of success to win.
A run in a stocking or tights, where the fabric has unraveled. noun
She noticed a ladder in her tights just before the meeting.
The ladder in her stockings got worse as the day went on.
To cause a run in a stocking or tights. verb
Be careful not to ladder your tights on the rough surface.
She accidentally laddered her stockings while putting them on.