What does hierarchy help to define in visual design?

Hierarchy in visual design is essential for establishing the order of elements based on their importance. It guides the viewer's eye and helps communicate which elements should be prioritized or noticed first. By using various techniques such as size, color, spacing, and positioning, designers can indicate the relative importance of different pieces of content. For example, larger and bolder elements typically attract more attention, signaling to the viewer that they are more significant within the context of the layout.

While size relationships can play a role in establishing hierarchy, the primary function of hierarchy is about the arrangement and emphasis on elements rather than just their size alone. Similarly, color contrast and uniformity contribute to the overall aesthetics and usability of a design but do not specifically address the notion of prioritized importance in the same way hierarchy does. Hence, option C accurately captures the core purpose of hierarchy in visual design.