successive

adjective

suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈse-siv 

1

: following in order : following each other without interruption

their fourth successive victory

2

: characterized by or produced in succession

successively adverb

successiveness noun

Synonyms

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

Examples of successive in a Sentence

a trait found in successive generations

made the honor roll for three successive school terms

Recent Examples on the Web

These are positive omens for a goal-shy side that has not managed to dispel fears of a fourth successive relegation battle. —Patrick Boyland, The Athletic, 16 Dec. 2024

Even though successive presidential administrations have advocated for reform, change remains elusive. —David Williams, Baltimore Sun, 15 Dec. 2024

In response to Trump’s attacks, three successive Democratic nominees for president have positioned themselves as unwavering defenders of the national security establishment. —Ben Rhodes, Foreign Affairs, 13 Dec. 2024

Though many of the devices have become more compact over successive iterations, almost all still need some sort of battery to hold power. —Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 12 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

successive

adjective

suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈses-iv 

: following in order : following each other without interruption

failed in three successive tries

successively adverb

successiveness noun

Legal Definition

successive

adjective

suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈse-siv 

1

a

: of or relating to succession

successive rights

b

: created by succession

2

: following in order : following each other without interruption

successive bankruptcy filings

3

: of, relating to, or being a petition for habeas corpus that raises a claim already adjudicated

successively adverb

successiveness noun