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Pecking order Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pecking order

[ˈpɛkɪŋ ˈɔːrdər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

social hierarchy

The pecking order refers to the hierarchical system of social organization within a group, often observed in animals such as chickens. It determines the rank and status of each individual based on dominance and submission.

Synonyms

dominance hierarchy, hierarchy, social ranking.

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Word Description / Examples
pecking order

Used primarily in informal or casual contexts to describe the way people or animals are ranked in a group, typically based on power or social standing.

  • In the office pecking order, the junior employees always get the toughest assignments.
  • The hens have a clear pecking order, with the strongest one always getting first access to food.
hierarchy

A general term used in both formal and informal settings to refer to any system of ranking or organization within a group or society.

  • The company has a strict hierarchy, with each level of management responsible for different aspects of the business.
  • In medieval times, society was structured in a rigid hierarchy with the king at the top.
dominance hierarchy

Often used in scientific or academic discussions, especially in the context of animal behavior studies, to describe the ranking system within a group based on dominance.

  • Wolves establish a dominance hierarchy to maintain social order within the pack.
  • The dominance hierarchy among the chimpanzees was studied for years by the researchers.
social ranking

Commonly used in discussions about society or sociology to indicate the relative standing or status of individuals or groups within a community or organization.

  • Social ranking can influence many aspects of a person's life, including their access to resources and opportunities.
  • The social ranking at the high school was clearly defined, with the athletes and popular kids at the top.

Examples of usage

  • The pecking order in the office became evident during the team meeting.
  • In high school, the pecking order was established early on among the students.

Translations

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Origin of 'pecking order'

The term 'pecking order' originated from the observation of social behavior in chickens. It was first coined by Norwegian psychologist Thorleif Schjelderup-Ebbe in the early 20th century. Through his studies of chicken behavior, Schjelderup-Ebbe identified the hierarchical ranking system based on pecking and dominance interactions. The concept was later applied to other social animals and even human societies to describe the dynamics of social hierarchy.