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Definition of hierarchical

hierarchical

/ˌhaɪ.əˈrɑːr.kɪ.kəl/
hi · er · ar · chi · cal
Adverb:hierarchically
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hierarchical Lexical Profile

hierarchical Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Arranged or classified according to consecutive ranks, grades, or levels of authority, importance, or status.

Example

"The corporation shifted from a rigid, hierarchical management structure to a more collaborative team model."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for hierarchical

• Nearby Words

hiding
hieracium
hieracosphinx
hierarchical
hierarchically
hierarchy
hieroglyph

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived from Late Latin hierarchicus and Ancient Greek hierarkhia ('rule of a high priest'), combining hieros ('sacred') and arkhein ('to lead or rule'). Originally used to describe the ranked orders of angels and clergy, it broadened in the 19th century to denote any graded organization.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Hierarchical. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/hierarchical
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