chain of command

American  

noun

1. a series of administrative or military ranks, positions, etc., in which each has direct authority over the one immediately below.

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Etymology

Origin of chain of command

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

The procedure seems obvious now, but it established a chain of command that had previously varied from venue to venue.

From BBC • Mar. 21, 2026

It combines three special investigations bureaus from each of the three military branches into one, removing them from any direct chain of command.

From BBC • Mar. 18, 2026

But with its government’s chain of command largely intact External link, Iran retains both the capability and the demonstrated willingness to target Gulf energy infrastructure and maritime traffic.

From Barron's • Mar. 3, 2026

Iran’s leaders are preparing for an attack that could disrupt its chain of command.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 18, 2026

I think I’m finally beginning to make sense of what’s happening at the Park—like the flow of information and the chain of command.

From "The Bletchley Riddle" by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin

Related Words

• bureaucracy
• hierarchy
• network
• structure