glass ceiling

American  

[glas see-ling] / ˈglæs ˈsi lɪŋ /

noun

1. an upper limit to professional advancement, especially as imposed upon women, minorities, and other nondominant groups, that is not readily perceived or openly acknowledged.

   It’s more difficult for women of color to break through the glass ceiling.

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glass ceiling British  

noun

1. a situation in which progress, esp promotion, appears to be possible but restrictions or discrimination create a barrier that prevents it

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glass ceiling Cultural  

1. An unacknowledged — and ultimately illegal — barrier to advancement, especially for women and people of color: “In many professions a woman cannot break through the glass ceiling to the upper level of management.” The term dates from the 1980s.

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glass ceiling Idioms  

1. An unacknowledged discriminatory barrier to advancement, especially for women and minorities. For example, Harriet knew she'd never be promoted—she would never get through the glass ceiling. [1980s]

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Etymology

Origin of glass ceiling

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

"There is a real glass ceiling in large cities," added Blanche Leridon, director of French studies at the Paris-based Institut Montaigne.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

The 48-year-old has plenty to ponder on whether he has hit a glass ceiling on Tyneside.

From Barron's • Feb. 8, 2026

"It is really important in a sport that is permanently trying to attract more women that they enter a sport believing there is no biological glass ceiling," said Lord Coe at the time.

From BBC • Aug. 31, 2025

If it’s glamour you’re after, check out the Wolves downtown, which offers affordable cocktails on par with the real thing under a historic domed stained glass ceiling.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2024

Guards try to yank the calla lily down, but I push it to grow higher toward the glass ceiling.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton