F#133

ech·e·lon
n.
1.
a. A formation of troops in which each unit is positioned successively to the left or right of the rear unit to form an oblique or steplike line.
b. A flight formation or arrangement of craft in this manner.
c. A similar formation of groups, units, or individuals.
2. A subdivision of a military or naval force: a command echelon.
3. A level of responsibility or authority in a hierarchy; a rank: a job in the company's lower echelon.
tr. & intr.v. ech·e·loned, ech·e·lon·ing, ech·e·lons
To arrange or take place in an echelon.