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

The 48-year-old has plenty to ponder on whether he has hit a glass ceiling on Tyneside.

From Barron's • Feb. 8, 2026

“We are starting to see the glass ceiling crack,” said Limón.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2026

Emery runs the show and they have been the beneficiaries as they broke the Premier League's glass ceiling to reach the top four last season, following that up with an outstanding Champions League campaign.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2025

It would have a glass ceiling and thick glass walls and even a glass staircase.

From "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls