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.
Yet there's also a stirring tension in the film's — and Kaffee's — view of order and discipline, as strict adherence to the chain of command ultimately enables cruelty and abuse. Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 24 May 2025 Either there was some human error along the chain of command issuing evacuations or there was some type of technical error in sending the alerts. Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 21 May 2025 There is little accountability for failures in the chain of command, and leadership is often in thrall to political interests, including the powerful correction union. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 14 May 2025 However, there are guardrails in place, including sending the copy of the posts up the chain of command, including to Robertson and the sheriff. Daniel McFadin, Arkansas Online, 11 May 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 3 Jun. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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