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

This is not a sequential programming task: triangles in different areas of the screen can be drawn in any order. —Ars Technica, 20 Dec. 2024

These transitions are logged, creating a sequential record of tower connections that can map a phone’s movements over time. —Lars Daniel, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

The result also represents a 30% sequential increase — not a total surprise, given this quarter historically coincides with the launch of the latest iPhone each year. —Zev Fima, CNBC, 13 Dec. 2024

The total output: 950 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, all sent to the back wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch paddle-shift transmission that delivered snappy shifts but was smoother than the old sequential manual. —Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 11 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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