chain of command
Americannoun
Etymology
Origin of chain of command
First recorded in 1910–15
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.
Cases that merit enhanced scrutiny are moved up the chain of command.
From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 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
But with its government’s chain of command largely intact External link, Iran retains both the capability and the demonstrated willingness to target Gulf energy infrastructure and maritime traffic.
From Barron's • Mar. 3, 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
I appealed these dismissals unsuccessfully up the chain of command.
From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
