# hierarchical

/ˌhaɪˈɹɑɹkəkəɫ/ (US) · /haɪəɹˈɑːkɪkəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hierarchical
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

organized into different levels of importance or power. In this kind of system, people or things at the top have more authority than those at the bottom.

For teachers: arranged in order of rank, grade, or class. Often describes social, corporate, or biological structures where power or complexity increases at higher levels.

## Examples

- The company has a very hierarchical structure.
- In a strictly hierarchical organization, employees must follow a clear chain of command when reporting issues.
- Traditional military units maintain a hierarchical system to ensure that orders are executed efficiently and that responsibility is clearly assigned during high-pressure operations.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often paired with 'structure', 'system', or 'society'.

---

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.