243

Office & Rank

n.

hierarchy

Meaning: a system with ranked groups, usually according to social, economic, or professional class

Usage: Women found it very difficult to break into the upper ranks of the department’s hierarchy.

n.

incumbent

Meaning: the person who currently holds an office or position

Usage: The incumbent mayor answered questions during the school assembly.

n.

coronation

Meaning: the act of crowning

Usage: The new king’s coronation took place in the grand hall.

n.

tenure

Meaning: the period of holding an office or position

Usage: During her tenure as club president, Maya started a tutoring program.

n.

succession

Meaning: the process of following another in office or rank

Usage: The council planned a peaceful succession after the mayor retired.