glass ceiling

[glas see-ling] / ˈglæs ˈsi lɪŋ /

NOUN

prevention from advancement

Synonyms

WEAK

class prejudice social prejudice

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"There is a real glass ceiling in large cities," added Blanche Leridon, director of French studies at the Paris-based Institut Montaigne.

From Barron's • Mar. 23, 2026

She's the astronaut who smashed through the glass ceiling.

From BBC • Oct. 20, 2025

If it’s glamour you’re after, check out the Wolves downtown, which offers affordable cocktails on par with the real thing under a historic domed stained glass ceiling.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2024

Might she venture to break through Sacramento’s ultimate glass ceiling?

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2024

Directly beneath the glass ceiling is a heated turquoise pool, perfectly square and ready to be jumped into.

From "Warcross" by Marie Lu