sequence

¹se·quence

noun \ˈsē-kwən(t)s, -ˌkwen(t)s\

Definition of SEQUENCE

1

: a hymn in irregular meter between the gradual and Gospel in masses for special occasions (as Easter)

2

: a continuous or connected series: as a : an extended series of poems united by a single theme <a sonnet sequence> b : three or more playing cards usually of the same suit in consecutive order of rank c : a succession of repetitions of a melodic phrase or harmonic pattern each in a new position d : a set of elements ordered so that they can be labeled with the positive integers e : the exact order of bases in a nucleic acid or of amino acids in a protein f (1) : a succession of related shots or scenes developing a single subject or phase of a film story (2) : episode

3

a : order of succession b : an arrangement of the tenses of successive verbs in a sentence designed to express a coherent relationship especially between main and subordinate parts

4

a : consequence, result b : a subsequent development

5

: continuity of progression <the narrative sequence>

Examples of SEQUENCE

1. He listened to the telephone messages in sequence.
2. a chase sequence in a spy movie
3. I enjoyed the movie's opening sequence.

Origin of SEQUENCE

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin sequentia, from Late Latin, sequel, literally, act of following, from Latin sequent-, sequens, present participle of sequi

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to SEQUENCE

Synonyms: aftereffect, aftermath, backwash, child, conclusion, consequence, corollary, development, fate, fruit, issue, outcome, outgrowth, precipitate, product, result, resultant, sequel, effect, upshot

Antonyms: antecedent, causation, cause, occasion, reason

Related Words: ramification; denouement (also dénouement), echo, implication, repercussion; afterclap, afterglow, aftershock; blowback, by-product, fallout, offshoot, ripple, side effect (also side reaction), spin-off

Near Antonyms: consideration, determinant, factor; base, basis, foundation, ground, groundwork; impetus, incentive, inspiration, instigation, stimulus; mother, origin, root, source, spring

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