Is "stepladder" different from "ladder"?
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
These are basically the same things, but a stepladder is a type of ladder. They are generally shorter (have less steps) and can fold away for storage. Stepladders are used for shorter heights, like changing a lightbulb or reaching a ceiling, whereas a ladder might be used for things like construction or reaching a different floor. Ex: Can you bring the stepladder over? The ceiling is leaking. Ex: The firefighters brought a long ladder over and leaned it against the window.