High-ranking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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high-ranking

[ˈhaɪ ˌræŋkɪŋ ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in a job or position of high status or authority

Having a high rank, position, or status in a hierarchy or organization.

Synonyms

chief, principal, senior, top-level.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
high-ranking	Used to describe someone who holds a high position within an organization or institution. He is a high-ranking official in the government The high-ranking officers attended the meeting
senior	Used to describe someone who has a longer tenure or a higher position within an organization or profession. Can also refer to older people. She is a senior manager in her team The senior citizens enjoyed the event organized for them
top-level	Describes someone at the highest level within an organization, often implying significant authority and decision-making power. The top-level executives will be discussing the merger He is part of the top-level management
chief	Often used to refer to the leader or head of a group or organization, typically used in titles. She is the chief executive officer of the company The fire chief briefed the reporters
principal	Commonly used in academic settings to refer to the head of a school or college. Can also mean 'main' or 'most important'. The principal addressed the students in the assembly The principal reason for their success is their hard work

Examples of usage

She is a high-ranking executive in the company.
The high-ranking officials met to discuss the new policy.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Politics

High-ranking officials often have significant influence over policies and national decisions.
In many governments, these positions require confirmation by legislatures or other authorities.
Prominent examples include high-ranking military officers who play critical roles in national security.

Business

In companies, high-ranking roles like CEO and COO are crucial for setting strategies and leading teams.
These individuals often participate in high-stakes negotiations that affect the entire organization.
Networking is vital for them, as relationships can impact career advancement and opportunities.

Social Structures

High-ranking individuals often have access to exclusive events and places not available to the general public.
Their status can lead to both admiration and scrutiny from peers and the public alike.
In many cultures, they may be seen as role models, though they can also face backlash for their decisions.

Cultural Perception

High-ranking positions can be glamorized in media, with portrayals often focusing on the power and lifestyle.
Public figures in these roles can influence societal trends and values through their visibility.
Conversely, they may be depicted as out of touch, especially in times of economic or social strain.

Origin of 'high-ranking'

Main points about word origin

The term 'high' in this context has roots in Old English 'hēah', meaning elevated or above normal.
‘Ranking’ comes from Latin 'rangare', meaning to arrange, indicating the order of importance.
Combined, the phrase implies a position of elevated authority and respect within a hierarchy.

The term 'high-ranking' originated in the early 19th century, combining 'high' meaning elevated or important with 'ranking' referring to a position in a hierarchy. It is commonly used in the context of describing individuals or positions with authority or status within an organization or society.