Ladder — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˈla-dər/ lad·der

Meaning & Definition of Ladder

Ladder (noun)

  1. a structure for climbing up or down that consists essentially of two long sidepieces joined at intervals by crosspieces on which one may step
  2. something that resembles or suggests a ladder in form or use; especially, run
  3. a series of usually ascending steps or stages, scale

Ladder (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a scheme of rank or order

    "their team placed third on the tournament ladder"

    similar: graduation, hierarchy, ordering, ranking, scale
    related: food chain, pecking order, arrangement, array, disposal, disposition, distribution, sequence, series, setup, degree, echelon, footing, level, place, position, reaches, rung, situation, spot, standing, station, status

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Ladder

The most common words with a similar meaning to Ladder:

graduation, hierarchy, ordering, ranking, scale

Related Words for Ladder

food chain, pecking order, arrangement, array, disposal, disposition, distribution, sequence, series, setup, degree, echelon, footing, level, place, position, reaches, rung, situation, spot, standing, station, status

Word Forms of Ladder

Derived words: ladderlike (adjective)

Origin & Etymology of Ladder

Middle English, from Old English hlǣder; akin to Old High German leitara ladder, Old English hlinian to lean lean

First known use: before 12th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Ladder

Words & Phrases Containing Ladder

ladder-back, ladder truck, accommodation ladder, aerial ladder, career ladder, fish ladder, hook and ladder truck, Jacob's ladder, rope ladder

Frequently Asked Questions about Ladder

What does "Ladder" mean?

"Ladder" means a structure for climbing up or down that consists essentially of two long sidepieces joined at intervals by crosspieces on which one may step. As a noun, it is defined as: a structure for climbing up or down that consists essentially of two long sidepieces joined at intervals by crosspieces on which one may step.

What is another word for "Ladder"?

Other words for "Ladder" include graduation, hierarchy, ordering, ranking and scale. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Ladder" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Ladder"?

There are 28 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Ladder". Common alternatives include graduation, hierarchy, ordering, ranking and scale.

How do you use "Ladder" in a sentence?

Examples of "Ladder" in a sentence: "their team placed third on the tournament ladder".

Is "Ladder" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Ladder" is a noun.

Is "Ladder" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Ladder" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Ladder"?

"Ladder" is pronounced /ˈla-dər/ and divided into syllables as lad·der.

What is the origin of the word "Ladder"?

"Ladder" comes from Middle English, from Old English hlǣder; akin to Old High German leitara ladder, Old English hlinian to lean lean. First known use: before 12th century.