Ranking

Definition

‍"Ranking" refers to the position or order of individuals or things as graded by various criteria. It is primarily used to describe the relative importance, position, or performance in a list or hierarchy.

Parts of Speech

• ‍Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈræŋkɪŋ/
• Respelling: RANK-ing (with "RANK" as in "rank," and "ing" as in "king")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈræŋkɪŋ/
• Respelling: RANK-ing (similar to American English, with "RANK" as in "rank," and "ing" as in "king")

In both dialects, "ranking" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, "RANK." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating each component of the word with emphasis on the "RANK" syllable.

Etymology

‍The word "ranking" derives from the verb "rank," which originated in the late Middle English period. The verb comes from the Old French "ranc" or "rang," which means 'row, line,' from a Germanic source related to Old High German "hring" meaning 'ring.' The concept of arranging items in rows or lines evolved into the notion of ordering them according to some criterion.

Derivatives

• Ranker - One who ranks or arranges in a specific order.
• Ranked - Having a specific rank.
• Ranking system - A systematic method for assigning ranks.
• Unranked - Not having a rank.
• Rankable - Capable of being ranked.

Synonyms

• Rating
• Ordering
• Classifying

Antonyms

• Disarray
• Jumble
• Unsorted

Usage

‍In academic settings, universities are often subjected to ranking based on various performance metrics. In sports, players and teams are ranked according to their skills and wins. Search engines use complex ranking algorithms to determine the order of websites displayed in response to a query.

Related Terms

• Rank
• Hierarchy
• Sequence
• Classification
• Order

Detailed Definition: As a noun, "ranking" can refer to:

• The act or process of assigning a rank or position within a hierarchical or sequential order.
  • Example: The ranking of the students was based on their academic performance and extracurricular activities.
• A position within a ranking system.
  • Example: She achieved a high ranking within the competitive chess community.

• In addition to the noun form, "rank" as a verb can also denote the action of assigning such a position:
  • Example: The committee will rank the applicants based on their qualifications and interview performances.