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

So to ensure that everyone is working in harmony, the exec is revamping the usual chain of command; Colgate’s top leaders are hearing out entry-level staffers, stimulating the flow of ideas between ranks and generations to generate the best possible outcome. —Emma Burleigh, Fortune, 9 Jan. 2026

While unconfirmed reports circulated that he may later have been released, those familiar with the situation said his removal from the chain of command was definitive. —Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 8 Jan. 2026

Henry County’s top administrative officer faces an ethics complaint stemming from her husband and sister being county employees falling within her chain of command. —Reed Williams, AJC.com, 8 Jan. 2026

Hegseth argued Kelly undermined the chain of command, created confusion among service members and brought discord to the armed forces. —Jared Gans, The Hill, 6 Jan. 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