A portable ladder with flat steps and a hinged frame that stands on its own without needing to lean against a wall.
Compound of 'step' (from Old English 'stæpe') and 'ladder' (from Old English 'hlæder'). The 'step-' prefix distinguishes it from leaning ladders because of its independent steps.
The stepladder is a deceptively clever invention—by adding a second set of legs and hinges, it solves the problem of needing a wall to lean on, making it one of the most useful tools invented precisely because it stands freely.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.