hierarchical

[hahy-uh-rahr-ki-kuh l, hahy-rahr-] /ˌhaɪ əˈrɑr kɪ kəl, haɪˈrɑr-/

adjective

of, belonging to, or characteristic of a hierarchy.

Also, hierarchic.

Origin

1425-75; late Middle English. See hierarch, -ical

Related forms

hierarchically, adverb

antihierarchic, adjective

antihierarchical, adjective

antihierarchically, adverb

nonhierarchic, adjective

nonhierarchical, adjective

nonhierarchically, adverb

Examples from the web for hierarchical

So people who have to work together in a hierarchical structure end up deceiving and manipulating each other.
Scotch sales tend to be high in hierarchical societies.
hierarchical in all things, hyena etiquette usually requires the submissive animal to initiate the greeting.
During this time, the researchers were able to recognize a hierarchical structure amongst the families that persisted.
They differ from each other profoundly, but not in ways that lend themselves to such hierarchical judgments.
Spotted hyenas, also known somewhat disparagingly as laughing hyenas, live in a hierarchical social structure.
Gray wolves, the largest canines, are known for their hierarchical social structure and iconic howl.
Reading through a series of hierarchical menus and pushing buttons for multiple purposes would be new concepts for such customers.
It can also be configured to hide the file system's confusing hierarchical structure from novices.
Obedience is given to those who, in their hierarchical roles, demand it.

Word Origin and History for hierarchical

adj.

1560s, from hierarchic + -al (1). Related: Hierarchically.