successive

adjective

suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈse-siv How to pronounce successive (audio)
1
: following in order : following each other without interruption
their fourth successive victory
2
: characterized by or produced in succession
successively adverb
successiveness noun

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
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.
One of the most iconic nicknames in all of sports, Amen Corner refers to three successive holes on the picturesque 18-hole course. Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 29 Mar. 2025 Disputes over their rightful ownership between the UK and successive Greek governments have been ongoing for four decades. Karen K. Ho For Artnews, Robb Report, 25 Mar. 2025 Washington’s growing interest in the Indo-Pacific has meant that successive U.S. administrations have wanted to deprioritize the U.S. commitment to Europe. Jack Watling, Foreign Affairs, 24 Mar. 2025 Thirteen successive presidents all but vowed never to repeat those mistakes. Bret Stephens, The Mercury News, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for successive

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of successive was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Successive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/successive. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

successive

adjective
suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈses-iv How to pronounce successive (audio)
: 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 How to pronounce successive (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on successive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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