Skip to main content
Glite Dictionary
ladder-proof

ladder-proof

5.5
Made so stockings or tights do not get long tears when caught on things
  • adjective
  • Specialized
translation icon : antirrotura
  • The manufacturer claims their new socks are completely ladder-proof even after multiple washes.

Examples

  • I prefer ladder-proof stockings for my job.

  • These new tights are ladder-proof.

  • She always buys ladder-proof stockings for extra durability.

  • These ladder-proof tights have become an essential part of my work wardrobe.

  • She always buys ladder-proof stockings for extra durability.

  • The manufacturer claims their new socks are completely ladder-proof even after multiple washes.

  • These ladder-proof tights have become an essential part of my work wardrobe.

Synonyms

runproof
vsladder-proof
6.7

Fabric for stockings or tights that does not get long thin holes when it tears

is designed to resist initial damage and avoid long streaks after snags
run-resistant
vsladder-proof
5.5

Cloth like tights or stockings that does not get long holes when threads pull

is more focused on resisting initial damage rather than preventing spread

How Resistant

reinforced
1 3.7
ladder-proof
  • Specialized
5.5
ordinary
683 1.0
delicate
4 4.6

Surface Forms

ladder-proof positive

Morphology

ladder-proof = ladder + proof (semi-transparent) = ladder + proof

The compound 'ladder' + 'proof' clearly means 'resistant to laddering', but the relevant sense of 'ladder' (a run in hosiery) is specialized and may not be known to average learners.

Etymology

Ladder-proof mixes ladder, the word for a long tear or 'run' in stockings, and proof, the same 'proof' in waterproof meaning 'resistant to'. So, ladder-proof means 'resistant to runs' in tights or socks.