noun / verb
ladder
LAD-ur/ˈlædər/
A climbing frame composed of successive crosspieces.
The wooden ladder leans against the wall, its rungs evenly spaced.
Etymology
Old English hlæder already meant “ladder” or “steps,” a physical means of reaching a higher level. That climbing image also supported an early figurative meaning: a means of rising or advancing.
In context
he'd been convinced this was a real person Jimmy stated he was as solid as you or I terrified he jumped down the ladder
More examples
- He leans a ladder against the house to inspect the roof.
- Always set ladders on firm, level ground.
- A rope ladder hangs down the side of the boat.
Forms
ladder · ladders
Similar words
- stepladder
- A self-supporting ladder that opens on hinges rather than leaning.
- staircase
- A fixed structure with broad steps rather than ladder rungs.