Definitions

pecking order

NOUN

hierarchy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

food chain hierarchy power structure social structure

WEAK

chain of command 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.

Between artificial intelligence, the Iran War, and the future of Taiwan, there’s a lot for the United States and China to hash out—not least of which being the pecking order.

From Slate • May 15, 2026

The No. 55 draft pick in 2024, Bronny has surpassed Dalton Knecht, the 17th pick in that same draft, in the Lakers’ pecking order.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 28, 2026

Clinton had grabbed headlines for her displays while on loan at Tottenham and appeared to be above Park in the pecking order for an England midfield role.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

No matter how exclusive the party, there’s always a pecking order, and the coolest people—the actors—hang out in a room that’s off-limits.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

The newly arrived could not help but notice the unfair pecking order.

From "A Few Red Drops: The Chicago Race Riot of 1919" by Claire Hartfield

pecking order

Example Sentences

Related Words