hierarchical

American  

[hahy-uh-rahr-ki-kuhl, hahy-rahr-] / ˌhaɪ əˈrɑr kɪ kəl, haɪˈrɑr- /

Also hierarchic

adjective

1. of, belonging to, or characteristic of a hierarchy.

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Other Word Forms

• antihierarchic adjective
• antihierarchical adjective
• antihierarchically adverb
• hierarchically adverb
• nonhierarchic adjective
• nonhierarchical adjective
• nonhierarchically adverb

Etymology

Origin of hierarchical

1425–75; late Middle English. See hierarch, -ical

Example Sentences

"The hierarchical structure of the military places power with rank, especially in a training facility," he said.

From BBC • Jan. 23, 2026

This is how leadership always works in practice, even in organizations less hierarchical than the military.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 16, 2025

As is the case in all hierarchical organizations, the problem starts at the top.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

Instead, they support a hierarchical model in which ancient brain structures handle essential computations crucial for survival, such as detecting threats, following movement, or avoiding obstacles.

From Science Daily • Nov. 8, 2025

But this would provide only the economic and not the emotional basis for a hierarchical society.

From "1984" by George Orwell