chain of command

American  

noun

1. a series of administrative or military ranks, positions, etc., in which each has direct authority over the one immediately below.

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Etymology

Origin of chain of command

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

Donaldson quickly rose through the DUP's ranks, no longer a politician of protest but a key figure in the party's chain of command, developing a reputation as a strong media performer and policymaker.

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

Cases that merit enhanced scrutiny are moved up the chain of command.

From Los Angeles Times • May 5, 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

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

I think I’m finally beginning to make sense of what’s happening at the Park—like the flow of information and the chain of command.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Related Words

• bureaucracy
• hierarchy
• network
• structure