szczeble

Szczeble is the Polish plural form of szczebel, a noun that denotes a rung or step forming part of a ladder, scaffold, or similar stepped structure. The term is used to describe the horizontal crosspieces between the side rails or frames that provide stepping surfaces or support.

In practice, szczeble are typically made from wood, metal, or composite materials. They are securely anchored to the adjacent rails to ensure stability and load-bearing capacity. In ladders, each szczebel must be evenly spaced to provide consistent stepping, while in scaffolding or fencing, they serve as structural elements that maintain rigidity and spacing.

Beyond its literal meaning, szczeble is used metaphorically to refer to stages or levels within a process or career. Common phrases include expressions about ascending the “ladder of success,” such as po szczeblach kariery, illustrating progression through distinct steps or milestones.

The concept of szczeble is relevant across various contexts, including construction, industrial equipment, and furniture design, where evenly spaced crosspieces contribute to safety, strength, and usability. While the exact design and materials vary by application, the underlying idea remains a series of parallel supports that enable climbing, movement, or linkage between components. See also: ladder, rung, stair.