ceiling

[ˈsiːlɪŋ]

ceiling Definition

  • 1the upper interior surface of a room
  • 2an upper limit set on something

Using ceiling: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ceiling" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The ceiling of the room was painted white.

  • Example

    The government has imposed a ceiling on the amount of money that can be spent on the project.

  • Example

    The company has reached its earnings ceiling for the year.

  • Example

    The athlete has hit his performance ceiling and cannot improve further.

ceiling Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ceiling

Antonyms for ceiling

Idioms Using ceiling

  • to become extremely angry or upset

    Example

    When he found out that his car had been stolen, he hit the ceiling and started shouting at everyone around him.

  • keep a roof over one's head

    to have a place to live

    Example

    Even though he lost his job, he was able to keep a roof over his head by renting out a room in his house.

  • to make a lot of noise and have a good time

    Example

    The party was so much fun that we raised the roof until the early hours of the morning.

Phrases with ceiling

  • an unofficially acknowledged barrier to advancement in a profession, especially affecting women and minorities

    Example

    Despite her qualifications, she found it difficult to break through the glass ceiling and reach a higher position in the company.

  • a mechanical fan mounted on the ceiling of a room or space

    Example

    The ceiling fan helps to circulate the air and keep the room cool.

  • the maximum price that can be charged for a product or service, often set by the government

    Example

    The government has set a ceiling price for gasoline to prevent price gouging during times of crisis.

Origins of ceiling

from Middle English 'selyng', meaning 'covering'

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Summary: ceiling in Brief

The term 'ceiling' [ˈsiːlɪŋ] refers to the upper interior surface of a room or an upper limit set on something. It is used in phrases like 'glass ceiling,' which denotes an unofficial barrier to advancement in a profession, and 'hit the ceiling,' which means to become extremely angry or upset. 'Ceiling' also appears in idioms like 'keep a roof over one's head,' meaning to have a place to live, and 'raise the roof,' implying having a good time.

How do native speakers use this expression?