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

“Why, I saw her just this morning acting as a stepladder for the little ones to get to the high branch of the elm!”

From Literature

I climbed on the stepladder and took the saw off the wall.

From Literature

For days afterward, Medina sifted through the burned-out garage for his angle saws and stepladders, but they had all been destroyed.

From Los Angeles Times

We use a stepladder from the receiving room to bring down some gems.

From Seattle Times

She added there needed to be an increased recognition and rigour within the industry to address the risks associated with stepladders.

From BBC