glass ceiling

noun

: an intangible barrier within a hierarchy that prevents women or minorities from obtaining upper-level positions

Examples of glass ceiling in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The glass ceiling has been cracked, but not shattered. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 6 May 2025 Read the full Cancer Daily Horoscope Leo (July 23 - August 22) Break your glass ceiling. USA TODAY, 24 Mar. 2025 The Awards Gala honored leading women and changemakers who were commemorated and celebrated for their outstanding achievements toward breaking glass ceilings and defying societal norms to overcome adversity. Forbes Press Releases, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 The Italian Rozelle Court is to receive a glass ceiling. Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 24 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for glass ceiling

Word History

First Known Use

1984, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glass ceiling was in 1984

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Cite this Entry

“Glass ceiling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glass%20ceiling. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

glass ceiling

noun
: an informal limit to how high a position women and minorities can earn in a company
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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