ladder ladder /ˈlædɝ/

noun

1. () Steps consisting of two parallel members connected by rungs; for climbing up or down  ( ladder )
   steps consisting of two parallel members connected by rungs; for climbing up or down
    The ladder was extended to reach the top floor of the building
   The ladder was extended to reach the top floor of the building
   
   
2. A row of unravelled stitches  ( ladder , ravel , run )
   a row of unravelled stitches
    She got a run in her stocking
   she got a run in her stocking
   
3. Ascending stages by which somebody or something can progress  ( ladder )
   ascending stages by which somebody or something can progress
    He climbed the career ladder
   he climbed the career ladder
   

verb

1. [British] Come unraveled or undone as if by snagging  ( ladder [British] , run )
   come unraveled or undone as if by snagging
    Her nylons were running
   Her nylons were running