Hierarchy

/ˈhaɪəˌrɑːki/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A system in which members of an organization or society are ranked according to relative status or authority.

The company's hierarchy consists of three levels: executives, managers, and employees.

A graded or ranked series, especially of social or organizational structure.

In many cultures, there is a clear hierarchy that determines social roles and responsibilities.

A relationship or arrangement in which things are organized according to levels of importance or power.

The hierarchy of needs theory explains how people are motivated by different levels of needs.

In biological classification, the arrangement of classes or categories in an ordered system.

The taxonomic hierarchy classifies living organisms from kingdom down to species.

A ranking or system of values where some elements are regarded as superior to others.

In art, some critics maintain a hierarchy that places classical works above contemporary ones.

From the Greek 'hierarchia', meaning 'rule of a high priest'.

social hierarchy

A division of society into classes or groups by social status.

hierarchy of needs

A theory proposing that human actions are motivated by a series of hierarchical needs.

organizational hierarchy

The system by which an organization is structured in levels of rank.

status

The relative social, professional, or other standing of someone or something.

authority

The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.

leadership

The action of leading a group of people or an organization.

Top dog

In our workplace, the top dog is making all the big decisions.

Chain of command

If you have a problem, follow the chain of command before escalating it.