Definitions

chain of command

NOUN

apparatus

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bureaucracy hierarchy network structure

STRONG

setup

NOUN

hierarchy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

pecking order ranking

STRONG

echelons grouping position pyramid scale

WEAK

due order placing

NOUN

pecking order

Synonyms

STRONGEST

food chain hierarchy power structure social structure

WEAK

class structure corporate ladder dominance due order echelons grouping line of dominance order placing position ranking scale social hierarchy social ladder social pyramid social stratification

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The goal was to preserve the chain of command in law enforcement and the military and avoid chaos.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 19, 2026

The procedure seems obvious now, but it established a chain of command that had previously varied from venue to venue.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

Firefighters said they adhered to the LAFD’s strict chain of command and did not question higher-ups, while those in charge had fuzzy memories or shifted responsibility to others.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

"The chain of command within Iran's armed forces is unclear," said Farhad Mammadov, head of the Baku-based South Caucasus Studies Center.

From Barron's • Mar. 6, 2026

Out of the darkness came the members of my chain of command, including my new “friend,” Sergeant Austin.

From "The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates" by Wes Moore

chain of command

Example Sentences

Related Words