When people refer to a glass ceiling, they are talking about the attitudes and traditions in a society that prevent women from rising to the top jobs.
[journalism]
She broke through the glass ceiling as the first woman CEO.
They're now seeing their daughters hitting the glass ceiling.
glass ceiling in British English
noun
a situation in which progress, esp promotion, appears to be possible but restrictions or discrimination create a barrier that prevents it
glass ceiling in American English
an unofficial policy regarded as being imposed on women and minorities that prevents them from advancing to higher positions in business, government, etc.
Examples of 'glass ceiling' in a sentence
glass ceiling
Highly capable women fill comparable roles in other sectors where the glass ceiling is much less of an issue.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
Glass cliff Conspiracy theory that women business leaders who make it through the glass ceiling are given the top jobs men don't want.
Times, Sunday Times (2016)
It is no good telling women there's a glass ceiling.
The Sun (2015)
THE glass ceiling is looking increasingly brittle.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
It has one reception and a library with a glass ceiling, which would have made a good studio.
Times, Sunday Times (2012)
It has often been suggested that one of the reasons women hit a glass ceiling at work is that they are more reluctant than men to network.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
But we are not talking purely about race here - class is very much an issue when it comes to the glass ceiling.
Times, Sunday Times (2006)
I also need to warn her about the second glass ceiling, at home.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
Is the glass ceiling self-imposed?
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
No doubt others, due to the ubiquitous glass ceiling, feel that work will be more rewarding elsewhere.