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Definition of stepladder

stepladder

/ˈstɛpˌlæd.ər/
step · lad · der
Plural:stepladders
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stepladder Lexical Profile

stepladder Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A portable, self-supporting ladder with hinged sections that form an A-frame, typically equipped with flat steps rather than round rungs.

Example

"The electrician set up his stepladder in the center of the room to install the new ceiling fan."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for stepladder

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike an extension ladder or straight ladder, a stepladder is self-supporting via an A-frame structure and does not need to be leaned against a wall.

• Nearby Words

stepfather
stephanotis
stephens banded snake
stepladder
stepmom
stepmother
stepmotherly

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of 'step' and 'ladder', originating in the mid-17th century to distinguish self-standing climbing aids with flat steps from traditional leaning ladders with round rungs.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Stepladder. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 6, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/stepladder
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