hierarchy Definition
a system or organization in which people or groups are ranked one above the other according to status or authority.
Using hierarchy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hierarchy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company has a strict hierarchy, with the CEO at the top.
Example
In many animal societies, there is a clear hierarchy among members.
Example
The military operates on a strict hierarchy, with orders coming from the top down.
hierarchy Synonyms and Antonyms
Antonyms for hierarchy
Idioms Using hierarchy
Example
He started as an intern and worked his way up the hierarchy to become CEO.
Example
The protesters were trying to break down the hierarchy and create a more equal society.
Example
The company decided to flatten the hierarchy and eliminate several layers of management.
Phrases with hierarchy
social hierarchy
a system of ranking people in a society based on their social status or class
Example
The social hierarchy of medieval Europe was rigid and hierarchical.
Example
The power hierarchy in the country is dominated by a few wealthy families.
Example
The corporate hierarchy at the company is very flat, with only a few levels of management.
Origins of hierarchy
from Greek 'hierarkhia', meaning 'rule of a high priest'
Summary: hierarchy in Brief
Hierarchy [ˈhaɪərɑːrki] refers to a system or organization in which people or groups are ranked according to status or authority. It is prevalent in various contexts, such as companies, animal societies, and military operations. Examples include 'The company has a strict hierarchy, with the CEO at the top.' and 'The military operates on a strict hierarchy, with orders coming from the top down.' Idioms like 'climb the hierarchy' and 'flatten the hierarchy' describe upward mobility and reduction of levels, respectively.