n. & v.
--n.
1. a level or rank in an organization, in society, etc.; those occupying it (often in pl. : the upper echelons).
2 Mil. a formation of troops, ships, aircraft, etc., in parallel rows with the end of each row projecting further than the one in front (in echelon).
--v.tr. arrange in an echelon.
Etymology: F {eacute}chelon f. {eacute}chelle ladder f. L scala