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echelon
IPA:
Dictionary definition of echelon
A level, rank, or tier in a hierarchical or organizational structure, especially within a group, institution, or military context.
"He was promoted to the highest echelon of the company's management."
Detailed meaning of echelon
Echelons are often used to categorize individuals or units based on their importance, authority, or position within the overall structure. In the military, for instance, different echelons represent various units or levels of command, with higher echelons typically having greater authority and responsibility. In broader contexts, such as business or society, echelons can describe levels of management, leadership, or social hierarchy. The term is used to emphasize the stratified nature of an organization, with each echelon having specific roles, responsibilities, and degrees of influence.
Example sentences containing echelon
1. In the corporate echelon, she quickly climbed to the executive level.
2. The military's top echelon devised a strategic plan for victory.
3. As a professor, she reached the highest echelon of academia.
4. The political echelon faced a contentious debate on policy.
5. Their team occupied the highest echelon in the league standings.
6. The echelon of leadership demanded unwavering dedication.
History and etymology of echelon
The noun 'echelon' has an interesting etymological history that can be traced back to the French language. It originates from the Old French word 'eschelon,' which referred to the rungs of a ladder. This term, in turn, derives from the Frankish word 'skala,' meaning 'ladder' or 'staircase,' which has its roots in the Proto-Germanic 'skala.' The evolution of 'echelon' from describing the rungs of a ladder to signifying a level, rank, or tier in a hierarchical or organizational structure is fascinating. It metaphorically suggests the idea of individuals or units ascending or descending within an organization, similar to climbing or descending a ladder. This etymology underscores the hierarchical nature of echelons, where each level represents a distinct position or rank within a group, institution, or military context, often with its own set of responsibilities and authority.
Further usage examples of echelon
1. He aspired to reach the echelon of master artisans one day.
2. The tech company's innovation placed it in the echelon of industry leaders.
3. In the echelon of fashion designers, her name was renowned.
4. The government's top echelon crafted a comprehensive reform.
5. Climbing the echelon of success required determination.
6. The echelon of elite athletes trained tirelessly for the championship.
7. The organization's top echelon made critical decisions.
8. As a chef, he aimed to reach the highest echelon of culinary artistry.
9. The echelon of financial experts predicted market trends.He quickly rose through the echelons of the company and became a senior manager.
10. The military operation was only known to those in the highest echelon of command.
11. The small tech startup worked its way up to the upper echelon of the industry.
12. The athletes in the top echelon of their sport are exceptionally dedicated and disciplined.
13. The secretive organization had several echelons, with information only gradually revealed as members ascended the ranks.
14. To reach the upper echelon of academia, one usually has to publish numerous papers and earn a solid reputation.
15. The executive echelon of the corporation made the final decision regarding the merger.
16. She was determined to climb the social echelons and be recognized in high society.
17. The lower echelon of the military is composed of enlisted personnel, while officers make up the higher echelon.
18. At the party, celebrities and influencers represented the top echelon of the entertainment world.
19. The training program aims to develop leadership skills among the middle echelon of management.
20. The intelligence community has multiple echelons, each responsible for different aspects of national security.
21. The rising musician was praised as someone who would soon reach the upper echelon of the music industry.
22. The product is targeted at the higher echelon of consumers who are willing to pay for premium quality.
23. To understand how decisions are made in this organization, one must be familiar with its various echelons and their respective roles.
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Authority and Control, Governance and Authority, Social Hierarchy and Relationships, Strength and Resilience, Order and System, Social Status and Hierarchy
stratum
grade,position,rung,standing,station,status,tier
Synonyms for echelon
Quiz categories containing echelon
rank, bottom, base, lower
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