Lad′der.
1. A frame — usually movable — having a series of steps attached to side-bars or ropes. The varieties are distinguished by their purposes, position, or by some feature of construction.A ladder differs from a stairs in that the latter has treads and risers, being thus boxed in below. The ladder has merely steps.
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| Collapsing-ladder. |
Of the nautical ladders, we have, —
Accommodation-ladder.
Companion-ladder.
Forecastle-ladder.
Hold-ladder.
Jacob's-ladder.
Quarter-ladder.
Side-ladder.
Stern-ladder.
As to purpose, we have, —
Fire-escape.
Fire-ladder.
Fruit-ladder.
Garden-ladder.
Sealing-ladder.
The names denoting construction are, —
Chain-ladder.
Extension-ladder.
Rope-ladder.
Rule-joint ladder.
Step-ladder. [1245]
The collapsing-ladder (Fig. 2784) has rounds pivoted to the side-rails, recesses in which receive them when the ladder is folded. When the sidepieces are drawn apart, the rounds assume a horizontal position.
A movable ladder is sometimes used in ascending and descending shafts. Two poles ascend and descend alternately, and have stages on to or from which the person steps from or to the corresponding step on the other pole, at the moment when they become stationary. See man-engine.
Scaling-ladders are shown in the triumphal monuments of Rameses II., the great Sesostris, 1355 B. C.
The first ladder of record was that seen by Jacob in his dream, and it is the longest and best of which we have any account. It is the only one mentioned in the Bible.
2. (Nautical.) The accommodation-ladder is a stairs slung at the gangway. The forecastle and hold ladders are at these respective places. The Jacob's-ladder abaft the top-gallant masts, where there are no ratlines at the shrouds. The quarter and stern ladders are for reaching or leaving the boats moored astern.
3. A notched cleat or stick in a bookcase, for supporting shelves.
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| Ladder-carriage. |
