stepladder: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
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Quick answer
What does “stepladder” mean?
A portable ladder with steps or rungs, typically self-supporting with a hinge, used for reaching low to moderate heights.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A portable ladder with steps or rungs, typically self-supporting with a hinge, used for reaching low to moderate heights.
Metaphorically, can refer to a series of incremental steps or stages in a process, though this usage is less common.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Generally consistent; 'stepladder' is standard in both, with occasional spelling variations like 'step-ladder' (hyphenated) or 'step ladder' (two words).
Connotations
Similar in both regions, associated with household chores, DIY projects, and safety.
Frequency
Equally common in UK and US English, with no significant regional variation in frequency.
Grammar
How to Use “stepladder” in a Sentence
use a stepladderstand on the stepladdercarry the stepladderVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; may appear in hardware retail or safety equipment catalogs.
Academic
Occasionally mentioned in engineering or ergonomics studies related to tool design.
Everyday
Common in domestic contexts for tasks like changing light bulbs or accessing high shelves.
Technical
Used in construction, safety manuals, and product specifications for ladders.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “stepladder”
- Misspelling as 'step ladder' or 'step-ladder' inconsistently; overusing in figurative contexts where 'ladder' suffices.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A stepladder is self-supporting with steps and often folds, while a straight ladder leans against a surface and has rungs.
Standard usage is as one word ('stepladder'), though hyphenated ('step-ladder') or two-word ('step ladder') variants are occasionally seen.
Yes, but it's less common; it can metaphorically refer to incremental progress, similar to 'ladder' in phrases like 'corporate ladder'.
Always ensure it is on a level surface, do not overreach, maintain three points of contact, and check for defects before use.
A portable ladder with steps or rungs, typically self-supporting with a hinge, used for reaching low to moderate heights.
Stepladder is usually neutral in register.
Stepladder: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstɛpˌlædə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstɛpˌlædɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'step' + 'ladder' – it's a ladder with steps that you step on to climb.
Conceptual Metaphor
Often represents gradual progress or a series of stages in achieving a goal, akin to 'climbing the ladder'.
Practice
Quiz
What is a stepladder primarily designed for?