VocabDictionary

word ladder

/wɜːd ˈlæd.ər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A word game in which the player transforms one word into another by changing a single letter at a time, ensuring that every intermediate step is also a valid word.

Example Sentences:
  • She solved the word ladder by changing 'CAT' to 'COT', then 'COG', and finally 'DOG'.
  • Doing a daily word ladder is a great way to expand your vocabulary and spelling skills.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “word ladder”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Invented by the prolific Victorian author and mathematician Lewis Carroll (author of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland) in 1877. Originally published in Vanity Fair magazine under the name 'Doublets', the puzzle challenged players to transform one word into another by changing a single letter at a time, with each intermediate step forming a valid English word.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of climbing a ladder where each rung is a word, and you can only change one letter at a time to step up to the next word.

Frequently Asked Questions About “word ladder

1. What is the meaning of “word ladder” in English?

In English, word ladder (noun) is defined as: “A word game in which the player transforms one word into another by changing a single letter at a time, ensuring that every intermediate step is also a valid word.”.

2. How do you use “word ladder” in a sentence?

She solved the word ladder by changing 'CAT' to 'COT', then 'COG', and finally 'DOG'.

3. What are English synonyms of “word ladder”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “word ladder”?

Invented by the prolific Victorian author and mathematician Lewis Carroll (author of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland) in 1877. Originally published in Vanity Fair magazine under the name 'Doublets', the puzzle challenged players to transform one word into another by changing a single letter at a time, with each intermediate step forming a valid English word.