echelon Definition
- 1a level or rank in an organization, a profession, or society
- 2a formation of troops, ships, or aircraft in parallel rows with the end of each row projecting further than the one in front
Using echelon: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "echelon" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He quickly rose through the echelons of the company to become CEO.
Example
The military unit was arranged in echelon formation.
Example
She is at the highest echelon of the academic world.
echelon Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with echelon
the highest levels of an organization or society, often referring to those who hold the most power or influence
Example
Only those in the upper echelon of the company were invited to the exclusive retreat.
the intermediate levels of an organization or society, often referring to those who have some power or influence but not as much as those in the upper echelon
Example
The middle echelon of the government officials were responsible for implementing the new policy.
the lower levels of an organization or society, often referring to those who have little power or influence
Example
The lower echelon of the company consisted of entry-level employees.
Origins of echelon
from French 'échelon', meaning 'rung of a ladder'
Summary: echelon in Brief
The term 'echelon' [ˈɛʃəlɑn] refers to a level or rank in an organization, profession, or society. It can also refer to a formation of troops, ships, or aircraft in parallel rows. Examples include 'He quickly rose through the echelons of the company to become CEO.' and 'The military unit was arranged in echelon formation.' 'Echelon' extends into phrases like 'upper echelon,' referring to the highest levels of an organization or society, and 'lower echelon,' referring to the lower levels.
