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.

something resembling this.

a means of rising, as to eminence

the ladder of success.

a graded series of stages or levels in status; a hierarchical order of position or rank

high on the political ladder.

Nautical . companionway ( def. 1 ) .

Chiefly British . a run in a stocking.

to climb or mount by means of a ladder

to ladder a wall.

to furnish with a ladder

to ladder a water tower.

Chiefly British . to cause a run in (a stocking).

Chiefly British . to get a run, as in a stocking.

to gain in popularity or importance

He laddered to the top of his profession.