The term "pecking order" refers to a hierarchy or social structure within a group, where individuals have specific ranks and statuses based on their abilities, power, or influence. In nature, this concept is often observed in bird populations, where certain birds dominate others and establish themselves as the leaders of the flock. Similarly, in human societies, pecking orders can be seen in organizations, families, schools, and other social groups, with individuals vying for positions of power or prestige within their respective communities.