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.

The 48-year-old has plenty to ponder on whether he has hit a glass ceiling on Tyneside.

From Barron's • Feb. 8, 2026

“We are starting to see the glass ceiling crack,” said Limón.

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

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