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.

Clarke is convinced he and his players have learned from those experiences and are now in a position to "break that glass ceiling" by progressing to a historic knockout tie.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

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

She's the astronaut who smashed through the glass ceiling.

From BBC • Oct. 20, 2025

Its glass ceiling winks light over the queen's throne, making her glow.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton