hierarchical — Arranged in a system of ranks or levels, where each level has authority over those below it. Organized according to a hierarchy of power or importance.
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: Arranged in a system of ranks or levels, where each level has authority over those below it. Organized according to a hierarchy of power or importance.
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌhaɪəˈrɑrkɪkəl/
Example Sentences
- My cat seems to have established a hierarchical system where she's the CEO and I'm the unpaid intern.
- The military operates on a strict hierarchical basis.
- In this hierarchical society, your position determines your parking spot.
hierarchical
ADJECTIVE[/ˌhaɪəˈrɑrkɪkəl/]
Arranged in a system of ranks or levels, where each level has authority over those below it. Organized according to a hierarchy of power or importance.
The organization was highly hierarchical, and every decision flowed from the top down.
The hierarchical procession moved beneath the high arch in strict order. (HIGH + ARCH = HIERARCHICAL)
A hierarchical system stays methodical and feels logical to everyone.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Greek 'hierarches' meaning 'high priest,' combining 'hieros' (sacred, holy) and 'archein' (to rule). Originally described religious authority structures but expanded to mean any ranked system of organization.
Breakdown
hier- (sacred, holy) + arch- (to rule, govern) + -ical (adjective suffix meaning 'relating to')
🎵Rhyme
📝Examples
“My cat seems to have established a hierarchical system where she's the CEO and I'm the unpaid intern.”
“The military operates on a strict hierarchical basis.”
“In this hierarchical society, your position determines your parking spot.”
“The database uses a hierarchical arrangement to organize information.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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