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.

But in Sacramento, within the governor’s suite, California’s highest glass ceiling remains firmly intact.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 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

“We’re not there yet, but that glass ceiling that’s cracking is opening doors.”

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

Two columns of about a hundred rosewood pews stretched beneath a vaulted glass ceiling that let in so much light that no candles were needed during the day.

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas