ceiling

A figurative discriminatory barrier in the workplace that impedes the career progress of Asians and people of Asian descent, preventing them from reaching top leadership positions in a company. Coined by the writer Jane Hyun, it is derived from the term "glass ceiling," which refers to the subtle discriminations that prevent women from advancing to the top positions in business. Mark was worried that his Chinese heritage might result in a bamboo ceiling if he tried to get a promotion down the line.

The barrier of gender bias that makes it difficult for women in the military to advance through the ranks. A play on the phrase "glass ceiling," which refers to the same difficulty for women in the workplace in general. I can't stand this brass ceiling—if I were a man, I'd be a corporal by now.

A societal barrier that prevents women and minorities from advancing in the workplace. Many people believe that a glass ceiling exists within the tech industry because not many women hold prominent positions in the field.

Fig. to get very angry. She really hit the ceiling when she found out what happened. My dad'll hit the roof when he finds out that I wrecked his car.

to increase to a very high level The price of that new stock went through the roof. Police say the crime rate in our area has gone through the roof.

the opinions of people in a company which prevent women from getting such important positions as men The problem for women in broadcasting is the glass ceiling. Women rise but not to the top.

to become very angry and start shouting If I'm late again he'll hit the roof.

if the level of something, especially a price, goes through the roof, it increases very quickly As a result of the war, oil prices have gone through the roof.

An unacknowledged discriminatory barrier to advancement, especially for women and minorities. For example, Harriet knew she'd never be promoted-she would never get through the glass ceiling. [1980s]

Also, hit the roof. Explode in anger, as in Jane hit the ceiling when she saw her grades, or Dad hit the roof when he didn't get his usual bonus. The first expression dates from the early 1900s; the second is a version of a 16th-century locution, up in the house roof or house-top, meaning "enraged."