# echelon

/ˈɛʃəˌɫɑn/ (US) · /ˈɛʃəlˌɒn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/echelon
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a level or rank within a group, such as a military organization. It can also describe a group of people at the same level in a hierarchy.

For teachers: a level or rank within a hierarchy or organization. In a military context, it refers to a specific tier of command or a group of units operating at the same level.

## Examples

- The general moved up to the next echelon of command.
- The military strategy involved coordinating actions across three different echelons to ensure a unified front.
- The research team was divided into three distinct echelons, each responsible for a specific phase of the clinical trial to maintain rigorous oversight.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.