chain of command

noun phrase

: a series of executive positions in order of authority
a military chain of command

Examples of chain of command in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
As hearings begin, lawmakers say the central questions remain whether the survivors posed any imminent threat, whether the chain of command acted within the law, and what evidence exists to support the administration’s claims. Robert Alexander, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2025 Every single order that is given to this United States military by this commander in chief and through this chain of command through the secretary of war is lawful. NBC news, 23 Nov. 2025 The video could spark chaos within the military chain of command and lead to deaths, Leavitt said. Laura Gersony, AZCentral.com, 22 Nov. 2025 What appeared more likely was that some aide or speechwriter had nudged the term up the chain of command until it could be presented to him as a spell to be cast on his audience. Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 22 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for chain of command

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chain of command was in 1825

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Cite this Entry

“Chain of command.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chain%20of%20command. Accessed 22 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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