Definitions

1. noun

a layer or level in a series of ascending or descending ranks, ranks, or gradations

“The army’s new echelon of commanding officers was appointed to lead the troops.”

2. noun

a horizontal layer in a stratified rock formation

“The geologist studied the different echelons of rock exposed in the cliff face.”

3. verb

to arrange (things) in layers or levels

“The designer had to echelon the display of products to make it visually appealing.”