(~s)
1.
A ~ is a piece of equipment used for climbing up something or down from something. It consists of two long pieces of wood, metal, or rope with steps fixed between them.
N-COUNT
2.
You can use the ~ to refer to something such as a society, organization, or system which has different levels that people can progress up or drop down.
If they want to climb the ~ of success they should be given that opportunity...
N-SING: the N, usu with supp
3.
A ~ is a hole or torn part in a woman’s stocking or tights, where some of the vertical threads have broken, leaving only the horizontal threads. (mainly BRIT; in AM, use run )
N-COUNT