ladder: Meaning and Definition of

lad•der

1. a structure of wood, metal, or rope, commonly consisting of two sidepieces between which a series of bars or rungs are set at suitable distances, forming a means of climbing up or down.
2. something resembling this.
3. a means of rising, as to eminence: the ladder of success.
4. a graded series of stages or levels in status; a hierarchical order of position or rank: high on the political ladder.
5. companionway (def. 1).
6. a run in a stocking.

1. to climb or mount by means of a ladder: to ladder a wall.
2. to furnish with a ladder: to ladder a water tower.
3. to cause a run in (a stocking).

1. to get a run, as in a stocking.
2. to gain in popularity or importance: He laddered to the top of his profession.