stepladder

American  

[step-lad-er] / ˈstɛpˌlæd ər /

noun

1. a ladder having flat steps or treads in place of rungs.

2. any ladder, especially a tall one with a hinged frame opening up to form four supporting legs.

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stepladder British  

/ ˈstɛpˌlædə /

noun

1. a folding portable ladder that is made of broad flat steps fixed to a supporting frame hinged at the top to another supporting frame

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Etymology

Origin of stepladder

First recorded in 1745–55; step + ladder

Example Sentences

A small stepladder with three steps bisects the bunks.

From Washington Post • Apr. 12, 2023

The rented rig had no counterweight, so when they wanted to lift Tannahill, who originated the role of the actor playing Peter Pan, a crew member had to jump off a stepladder.

From New York Times • Mar. 29, 2023

They sprung into action and found it on a stepladder where I had apparently set it while looking at Halloween cards for my grandchildren.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 26, 2022

Javier Lopez, Chester Zoo's vet, then climbs up a small stepladder to take a blood sample from the elephant's ear vein.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2022

A stepladder was set up underneath a wooden loft door in the ceiling.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques