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

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

It combines three special investigations bureaus from each of the three military branches into one, removing them from any direct chain of command.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 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

Iran’s leaders have been preparing for an attack on the regime that could lead to a breakdown of the chain of command.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

Despite the best efforts of my chain of command to get me back to the Bronx from Afghanistan, I could not get there in time to say goodbye.

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