Hierarchic: meaning, definitions and examples

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hierarchic

 

[ haɪəˈrɑːr.kɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

organizational structure

The term 'hierarchic' refers to a system or structure that is organized in a ranked or graded manner. It describes situations where elements are arranged in order of importance or authority. In a hierarchic organization, individuals or groups are placed at different levels, often reflecting a clear chain of command. This structure facilitates decision-making processes and delineates responsibilities. Hierarchic systems are common in corporate, governmental, and military organizations.

Synonyms

graded, hierarchical, ordered, ranked, stratified

Examples of usage

  • The company has a hierarchic management structure.
  • In a hierarchic society, power is concentrated at the top.
  • Educational institutions often operate hierarchically with administrations overseeing faculties.

Translations

Translations of the word "hierarchic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hierárquico

🇮🇳 पैरामीडिक

🇩🇪 hierarchisch

🇮🇩 hierarkis

🇺🇦 ієрархічний

🇵🇱 hierarchiczny

🇯🇵 階層的な

🇫🇷 hiérarchique

🇪🇸 jerárquico

🇹🇷 hiyerarşik

🇰🇷 계층적

🇸🇦 هرمي

🇨🇿 hierarchický

🇸🇰 hierarchický

🇨🇳 层级的

🇸🇮 hierarhičen

🇮🇸 hierarkískur

🇰🇿 иерархиялық

🇬🇪 ჰიერარქიული

🇦🇿 hiyerarxik

🇲🇽 jerárquico

Word origin

The word 'hierarchic' derives from the Greek word 'hierarchia', which means 'rule of a high priest'. It was originally used in a religious context to describe the system of church government led by bishops and priests who held authority over lower levels of clergy. As societies evolved, the term expanded to encompass various organized structures, both secular and religious, that exhibit a stratified nature. The adjective form became popular in the early 20th century, as modern organizational theory began to emphasize the importance of hierarchy in institutions. This influence remains prevalent today in discussions about corporate governance, societal structures, and management practices.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,122 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.