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.
For the Americans working in Germany, the industry chain of command conflicted with cultural politics — Americans held parochial views about their post–World War II national superiority. Armond White, National Review, 28 Feb. 2025 Less chain of command and more trust equates to greater passion and buy-in. Kevin Kruse, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 Working Within Strict Hierarchies Federal or military leaders emphasize the chain of command and mission alignment. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025 At least 1 million federal workers responded to Musk’s email, Leavitt told White House reporters while also clarifying the chain of command in the government. Mabinty Quarshie, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 25 Feb. 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 19 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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