ladder

Definitions

• A frame, usually portable, of wood, metal, or rope, used for ascent and descent, consisting of two side pieces to which are fastened rungs (cross strips or rounds acting as steps).
• (figuratively) A series of stages by which one progresses to a better position.
• (figuratively) The hierarchy or ranking system within an organization, such as the corporate ladder.
• (chiefly) A length of unravelled fabric in a knitted garment, especially in nylon stockings; a run.
• In the game of go, a sequence of moves following a zigzag pattern and ultimately leading to the capture of the attacked stones.