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

Taylor revolutionised the professional game and alongside her contemporaries, smashed through the glass ceiling and brought women's boxing to the pinnacle of the sport.

From BBC • Feb. 25, 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

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

This expression closed in New Haven. glass ceiling.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner