sequential

adjective

se·​quen·​tial si-ˈkwen(t)-shəl How to pronounce sequential (audio)
Synonyms of sequentialnext
1
: of, relating to, or arranged in a sequence : serial
sequential file systems
2
: following in sequence
3
: relating to or based on a method of testing a statistical hypothesis that involves examination of a sequence of samples for each of which the decision is made to accept or reject the hypothesis or to continue sampling
sequentially adverb

Did you know?

Things in sequence, or regular order, are arranged sequentially. Most novels and films move sequentially, but some use techniques such as flashbacks that interrupt the movement forward in time. Sequential courses in college must follow each other in the proper order, just like sequential tasks or steps.

Examples of sequential in a Sentence

Put the cards in sequential order. explained that if the two required algebra semesters weren't sequential, the students would likely forget the material
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
More intricate knots can be designed to untie in stages, resulting in sequential movements similar to a gymnastic routine. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 23 Apr. 2026 Custom spline shafts—designed to mate the Ferrari crankshaft to a Motus MSTR six-speed sequential transmission—were tested, broken, and remade to withstand the demands of a high-revving V-8. Eric Hendrikx, Robb Report, 22 Apr. 2026 At an altitude of about 50,000 feet, at a velocity of some 300 mph, 11 parachutes will begin deploying in sequential fashion to further slow and stabilize the spacecraft. Miles Doran, CBS News, 10 Apr. 2026 Originally, the plan was for the Orion capsule to dip in and out of the atmosphere, like a skipping stone, to gradually shed some of its high velocity through sequential periods of friction with the atmosphere. Keith Cooper, Space.com, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sequential

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sequential was in 1844

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Cite this Entry

“Sequential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.grautoblog.com/dictionary/sequential. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

sequential

adjective
se·​quen·​tial si-ˈkwen-chəl How to pronounce sequential (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or arranged in a sequence
sequential file systems
2
: following in sequence
sequentially adverb

Medical Definition

sequential

adjective
se·​quen·​tial
si-ˈkwen-chəl
1
: occurring as a sequela of disease or injury
2
: of, relating to, forming, or taken or administered in a sequence
sequential chemotherapy
sequential noun

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