pecking order

• Terme imagé désignant une hiérarchie ou un classement des individus au sein d'un groupe, d'une organisation ou d'une société, fondé sur le statut, le pouvoir ou l'ancienneté.

A figurative term referring to the hierarchy or ranking of individuals within a group, organization, or society, based on status, power, or seniority.

1. Social hierarchyB2informal

   A system of ranking or hierarchy within a group, where individuals have different levels of status or power.

   ordre hiérarchique

   • In the office, the pecking order is clear: the manager is at the top.
   • New employees often start at the bottom of the pecking order.
   • The pecking order in the team changed after the new coach arrived.

2. Animal behaviorC1formal

   A natural hierarchy observed in groups of animals, especially birds, where individuals establish dominance through pecking or other behaviors.

   ordre hiérarchique

   • Chickens establish a pecking order to determine access to food.
   • The pecking order among wolves is maintained through displays of dominance.
   • In a flock of birds, the pecking order ensures social stability.