English Reference
noun · adjective

ranking

n. · adj.
US /ˈɹæŋkɪŋ/ UK /ɹˈæŋkɪŋ/ rank·ing UK spelling ranking's, ranking's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.your position on a list that compares you to others based on quality or success.

    n.the relative position of an individual or entity within a hierarchical system, typically determined by performance or status.

    Simple

    After winning the tournament, her world ranking rose to number five.

    In context

    The university's global ranking improved significantly following the publication of several high-impact research papers by its faculty.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    n.the act of putting things in order from best to worst.

    n.the process of assigning a position to items in a list for comparison.

    Simple

    The ranking of the best films of the year is always controversial.

    In context

    The committee's ranking of the candidates was based on a rigorous set of objective criteria designed to eliminate personal bias.

    Usage

    Often used with 'of' to describe the items being ordered.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.having a high or senior position in an organisation.

    adj.holding a superior or senior position within a hierarchy; often used in military or political contexts.

    Simple

    The ranking officer on the ship gave the order to change course.

    In context

    As the ranking member of the committee, she was responsible for overseeing the legislative agenda during the chairperson's absence.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun it modifies.

It was just a pure lack of concentration.” With the Canadian title, world number eight Swiatek will return to the top five in the rankings.

Al Jazeera· 14 Aug 2026

It is the first time Incheon has topped the international passenger rankings since opening in 2001.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated