'ladder' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hlǣder' (or 'hlæder'), meaning 'ladder' or 'stair-like structure'.

'ladder' changed from the Old English word 'hlǣder' and through Middle English became the modern English word 'ladder'.

Initially, it meant 'a structure of steps for climbing', and over time it has kept that basic meaning while also gaining figurative senses (e.g., a hierarchy).