hierarchy

(l) A form of organization resembling a pyramid. Each level is subordinate to the one above it. See heterarchy. (Umpleby ) (2) An organization whose components are arranged in levels from a top level down to a bottom level. (Arbib) (3) A partially-ordered structure of entities in which every entity but one is successor to at least one other entity; and every entity except the basic entities is a predecessor to at least one other entity. (Rogers) (4) Narrowly, a group arranged in order of rank or class; we interpret it to denote a rank arrangement in which the nature of function at each higher level becomes more broadly embracing than at the lower level. (Iberall)