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).
2
A series of stages by which one progresses to a better position.
3
The hierarchy or ranking system within an organization, such as the corporate ladder.
4
A length of unravelled fabric in a knitted garment, especially in nylon stockings; a run.