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.

“Breaking that glass ceiling, that’s special to me,” Ng said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

"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

But to many, Ley's glass ceiling looked an awful lot like a "glass cliff", and it felt like it was only a matter of time before she lost her grip and slipped off it.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026

“We all kind of broke this glass ceiling, and now sky’s the limit,” Chloe said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2026

Before I ascend the metal stairs that will carry me above the glass ceiling, I wait in darkness and watch the light cast on the Pit walls by the sun.

From "Divergent" by Veronica Roth