step ladder
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A folding portable ladder hinged at the top: A "step ladder" is a self-supporting ladder with flat steps and a hinged design that allows it to be folded for storage and portability. It does not need to lean against a wall.
Usage
- A "step ladder" is used for reaching moderately high places safely indoors or outdoors. It is characterized by its A-frame shape when open and its ability to fold flat.
- Example:
- Example:
Advanced Usage
- "to be on the top step of the step ladder": To be in the highest or most precarious position, often used metaphorically.
- Be careful; you shouldn't stand on the very top step of the step ladder.
- The term can imply a temporary or mobile solution for a task requiring elevation.
- For quick access to the high shelves, a step ladder is more convenient than a fixed library ladder.
Variants and Related Words
- Stepladder (noun): A common alternative spelling, written as one word.
- He climbed the stepladder to retrieve the book.
- Folding ladder (noun): A more general term that includes step ladders and other collapsible ladder designs.
- Step stool (noun): A shorter, often non-folding platform with one or two steps, used for similar but lower-reach purposes.
Synonyms
- Portable ladder: A ladder designed to be moved and carried easily.
- A-frame ladder: Describes the shape of the open step ladder.
Related Phrases
- Set up/take down a step ladder: To open for use or fold for storage.
- He set up the step ladder under the tree to pick apples.
- Climb up/down a step ladder: The action of ascending or descending it.
- She climbed down the step ladder carefully, holding a paint can.
Related Idioms
- A step up the ladder: Part of the common idiom "a step up the career/social ladder," meaning an advancement in status or position. Note: This idiom uses the concept of a ladder metaphorically and is not specific to a .
- That promotion was a significant step up the corporate ladder for her.
Noun
- a folding portable ladder hinged at the top