Meaning

• Noun

  1. 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.
  5. In the game of go, a sequence of moves following a zigzag pattern and ultimately leading to the capture of the attacked stones.

• Verb