Synonyms for

Hierarchical

Verb / ˌhaɪˈrɑ:rkʌkʌl / Another word for hierarchical — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

relating to a system of organization where people or things are ranked one above the other according to status or authority

Synonyms & similar words

hierarchal hierarchic nonhierarchical ranking ordered graded class-based stratified pyramidal graded layered leveled structured arranged systematic organized categorized classified tall high vertical upright lofty

Synonyms by register

Formal

stratified graded ordered ranked

Informal

pecking order chain of command

Literary

tiered ascendant

Antonyms

flat egalitarian decentralized unstructured horizontal non-hierarchical

Common collocations

  • hierarchical structure
  • hierarchical organization
  • hierarchical system
  • hierarchical model
  • hierarchical classification
  • hierarchical relationship
  • hierarchical network

Word family

noun hierarchy
adjective hierarchical
adverb hierarchically

Usage note

Often used in contexts of management, social structure, or classification systems. Be mindful of its formal tone.

Example sentences

  1. The school has a hierarchical system where the principal is at the top.
  2. The military is a hierarchical organization with different ranks.
  3. The company's hierarchical structure made it difficult for new ideas to be heard.
  4. The feudal system was a hierarchical society in medieval Europe.
  5. The monarch was at the top of the hierarchical system in the kingdom.

Quotes

  • We are living in a hierarchical world, in which people constantly assess and rank each other.
  • The hierarchical system is the only way to organize human communities.
  • A hierarchical society only works if people accept their place in it.

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