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

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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

• back-to-back
• consecutive
• sequent
• straight
• succeeding
• successional
• 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

Finally, as noted earlier, the company expects a modest sequential increase in Disney+ subscribers in ira fiscal third quarter — an encouraging development given the past earnings reports included guidance for losses. —Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 7 May 2025

The company reiterated its expectations for sequential increases in net bookings for fiscal 2026 and 2027. —Reuters, CNN Money, 2 May 2025

Break Complex Tasks into Smaller Steps When tackling complicated projects, breaking them down into sequential AI prompts often produces better results than attempting to accomplish everything with a single instruction. —Caroline Castrillon, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025

Posted by California Hotel & Casino – Las Vegas on Monday, March 10, 2025 A straight flush happens when a player’s cards are in sequential order and in the same suit. —Helena Wegner, Sacramento Bee, 13 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sequential

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

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