sequential

adjective

se·​quen·​tial si-ˈkwen(t)-shəl 

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

si-ˈkwen(t)-sh(ə-)lē 

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.

Synonyms of sequential

• consecutive
• successive

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

Traditional CPUs excel at sequential computing tasks, such as calculating a massive spreadsheet or running a precise physics simulation, as these often require executing steps in strict order at blazing speeds. — New Atlas, 18 Oct. 2026

The trucking and transportation company absorbed more than $50 million in sequential cost headwinds, led by driver and medical costs. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026

Ocean revenue rose 5% to $711 million, with container volume up 7% from Q1, the first sequential increase since the third quarter of 2025. — Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2026

But these approaches didn’t feel right for Blow Yourself Up, because while other media are prevalent, the story is told in traditional prose through sequential scenes. — Literary Hub, 2 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sequential

• credential
• prudential
• tangential
• torrential
• circumferential
• inconsequential
• consequential
• deferential
• existential
• exponential
• influential
• nonessential

Kids Definition

sequential

adjective

se·​quen·​tial si-ˈkwen-chəl 

1

: of, relating to, or arranged in a sequence

sequential file systems

2

: following in sequence

sequentially

-ˈkwench-(ə-)lē 

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