Rank

Definition

The term "rank" refers to a position or level in a hierarchy or classification, or a status based on authority, importance, or quality. It can also mean something having a strong or unpleasant smell.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ræŋk/
• Respelling: rank

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ræŋk/
• Respelling: rank

Etymology

The word "rank" originates from the Old English "ranc," meaning "proud" or "overbearing." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "rankaz," related to the Old Norse "rakkr," meaning "straight" or "erect." Over time, its meaning expanded to denote a position or classification.

Derivatives

• Ranking (noun)
• Ranked (verb/adjective)
• Ranker (noun)
• Rankness (noun)
• Outrank (verb)

Synonyms

• Position
• Level
• Status

Antonyms

• Disorder
• Equality
• None

Usage

The term "rank" is used in various contexts such as military, academic, social, and competitive hierarchies. For example, "She achieved the highest rank in her class," or "The rank odor filled the room."

Related Terms

• Hierarchy: A system of organization by levels of importance.
• Classification: The arrangement of items into groups based on shared qualities.
• Order: An organized arrangement or sequence.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A position in a hierarchy based on authority, importance, or status:
  • Example: "He rose to the rank of captain in the military."
• A classification of items or people based on quality or merit:
  • Example: "The movie received a high rank among critics."
• A line or row of people or objects:
  • Example: "The soldiers stood in a rank during the inspection."

Verb

• To assign a position or level to someone or something within a hierarchy:
  • Example: "The team was ranked third in the tournament."
• To have a particular standing or status:
  • Example: "This achievement ranks among her greatest accomplishments."

Adjective

• Having a strong or unpleasant smell:
  • Example: "The garbage emitted a rank odor."
• Complete or utter (used for emphasis):
  • Example: "His claim was a rank exaggeration."