Students who 'rank' in the top third of their class have a better chance of being accepted to the college of their choice.
A company spokesperson announced that the company will be decreasing its 'ranks' by 200. [=laying off 200 employees]
The guest lecturer is a novelist 'of rank' [=of high regard; of esteem] who has won many prestigious awards.
(..) You're dating my sister, and Penny and I are in love. What?! Gentlemen, if I may interject, I've decided my rank will be captain. If it's good enough for Kirk, Crunch and Kangaroo, it's good enough for me. You're not in love with Penny. (..)2011 TvShow: The Big Bang Theory Title: The Skank Reflex Analysis Season: 5 Episode 1