laddered

Laddered describes something arranged in a series of ascending or descending levels, like the rungs of a ladder.

Financial advisors recommend a laddered bond portfolio or laddered CD strategy, where investments mature at staggered intervals.

In British usage, laddered also describes stockings or tights that have developed a run—a vertical tear where stitches have come undone in a ladder-like pattern.

She noticed her tights were laddered just before the interview.