Definition of: ladder

(lad′ər) noun
1. A device of wood, rope, etc., for climbing and descending: usually a series of rounds, supported at their ends by long sidepieces; also, any means of ascending.
2. A run in a stocking or other knit fabric.
3. Mil. A three-round burst fired rapidly from a gun pointing in the same direction but with the second and third rounds at a decreased range. [OE hlœdder]