Meaning & Definition of word "Seniority"

Seniority

/sɪˈnɪərɪti/

1. The fact or state of being older or higher in status than someone else.
- Example: In our department, promotions are often based on seniority rather than merit.
2. The length of time that a person has worked for a particular company or organization.
- Example: Employees with greater seniority are entitled to more vacation days.
3. A system in which the higher the seniority, the more privileges and rights a person has.
- Example: The seniority system in the military can affect assignment and promotion opportunities.

Derived from the Latin word 'senior', meaning 'older'.

last in, first out:

A policy that lays off the most recently hired employees first, often applied in a seniority system.

seniority rights:

Entitlements based on one's length of service.

rank and file:

Regular members of an organization, as contrasted with its leadership.

senior:

An individual of higher rank or age.

junior:

An individual of lower rank or age.

tenure:

The period during which someone holds a position.

Meaning: Old-timer

Example Sentence: He’s an old-timer around here; his seniority speaks for itself.

Meaning: Greybeard

Example Sentence: In meetings, the greybeards often have the final say due to their seniority.