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

"It is really important in a sport that is permanently trying to attract more women that they enter a sport believing there is no biological glass ceiling," said World Athletics president Lord Coe.

From BBC • Jul. 30, 2025

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

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 11, 2024

White columns surrounded the edges of the pool under an opaque glass ceiling.

From "Salt to the Sea" by Ruta Sepetys