LADDER

v. ascend a ladder; install ladders; cause a run in a stocking; get a run in a stocking

n. structure used for climbing which consists of two parallel bars connected by a series of rungs; means by which one moves to a higher level; tear in a stocking (British)

A ladder is a vertical or inclined set of rungs or steps. There are two types: rigid ladders that can be leaned against a vertical surface such as a wall, and rope ladders that are hung from the top. The vertical members of a rigid ladder are called beams (US) or stiles (UK). With a bit of agility, one can slide down the stiles without climbing down each rung. Rigid ladders are usually portable, but some types are permanently fixed to buildings.
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Noun
1. steps consisting of two parallel members connected by rungs; for climbing up or down
(hypernym) stairway, staircase, stairs, steps
(hyponym) extension ladder
(part-meronym) rundle, spoke, rung
2. ascending stages by which somebody or something can progress; "he climbed the career ladder"
(hypernym) degree, level, stage, point
3. a row of unravelled stitches; "she got a run in her stocking"
(synonym) run, ravel
(hypernym) damage, harm, impairment
(derivation) run
Verb
1. come unraveled or undone as if by snagging; "Her nylons were running"
(synonym) run
(hypernym) break, separate, split up, fall apart, come apart
(verb-group) run, unravel
(derivation) run, ravel

n. ladder

v. unplait

(v. i.)
That which resembles a ladder in form or use; hence, that by means of which one attains to eminence.
  

(v. i.)
A frame usually portable, of wood, metal, or rope, for ascent and descent, consisting of two side pieces to which are fastened cross strips or rounds forming steps.