sequel

noun

Synonyms of sequelnext
1
2
a
: subsequent development
b
: the next installment (as of a speech or story)
especially : a literary, cinematic, or televised work continuing the course of a story begun in a preceding one

Examples of sequel in a Sentence

The new film is a sequel to the very successful comedy that came out five years ago. He is busy writing the book's sequel. There is an interesting sequel to my date with her that I'll share with you later.
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.
Even the game's final zinger feels less like an exciting twist and more like sequel bait right off some corporate checklist. Gabriel Zamora, PC Magazine, 10 Sep. 2026 Meanwhile David Fincher’s Once Upon a Time in Hollywood sequel centering on Brad Pitt’s Cliff Booth will be released in Imax over the Thanksgiving holiday. Josef Adalian, Vulture, 10 Sep. 2026 Gilly’s Enchanting Makeup If Bullock has a more natural, matte makeup look in the sequel, Kidman’s vibe is more whimsical and luminous to juxtapose the personalities of the sisters. Kirbie Johnson, Allure, 10 Sep. 2026 In the sequel to 1998’s beloved fantasy film, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman return as two sisters who are witches. Daniel D'addario, Variety, 10 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sequel

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French sequele, from Latin sequela, from sequi to follow — more at sue

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sequel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sequel. Accessed 12 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: an event that follows or comes afterward : result
2
: a book, motion picture, or television program that continues a story begun in a preceding one
Etymology

Middle English sequel, sequele "follower, series," from early French sequelle (same meaning), from Latin sequella, sequela "follower," from sequi "to follow" — related to consecutive, pursue, second entry 1, sequence

Medical Definition

sequel

noun
se·​quel
ˈsē-kwəl also -ˌkwel
: sequela
gangrene is … a sequel of woundsRobert Chawner
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