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

The top 10 percent of the entire military chain of command has been purged. — CBS News, 6 Sep. 2026

The Forest Service has a separate chain of command, but the Patrol captain in the region advises the Forest Supervisor on law enforcement matters occurring in a national forest, according to the USDA. — Lily Knoepp, Charlotte Observer, 3 Sep. 2026

Henderson’s chain of command, including a lieutenant and Maj. — Grant Lancaster, Arkansas Online, 3 Sep. 2026

The Army secretary manages the Army's budget and engages in long-term planning, but is not part of the military chain of command, meaning Driscoll doesn't command troops in the Middle East. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 1 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1825, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for chain of command

• analysand
• misunderstand
• ampersand
• beforehand
• behindhand
• bottomland
• contraband
• countermand
• dixieland
• fairyland
• fatherland
• firebrand