rung
UK: rʌŋ | US: rʌŋ
n. 1. A horizontal support on a ladder for a person's foot.
n. 2. A level or stage in a hierarchy or process.
v. (past participle of ring) To have made a resonant sound, as a bell.
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The word "rung" traces back to Old English hrung, referring to a crossbar or spoke, likely derived from Proto-Germanic hrungō. Its meaning evolved to specifically denote the horizontal steps of a ladder by the 14th century. The verb form (past participle of ring) shares no etymological connection, originating separately from Old English hringan (to resound).
She climbed to the top rung of the ladder.
He has reached a high rung in the corporate ladder.
The bell had rung before we arrived.
Be careful—the bottom rung is loose.
Each rung of success requires hard work.