In a
hierarchy or
tree structure of any kind, a
superior is an individual or position at a higher level in the hierarchy than another (a "subordinate" or "inferior"), and thus closer to the
apex. In
business, superiors are people who are
supervisors and in the
military, superiors are people who are higher in the
chain of command (
superior officer). Superiors are given, sometimes supreme, authority over others under their command. When an order is given, one must follow that order and obey it or punishment may be issued.