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

Did you know?

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 of sequential

• consecutive
• 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

Our 2026 Toyota Tundra SR5 4×4 wrapped in Celestial Silver is powered by the favorite i-FORCE Twin-Turbo V6 engine, producing 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque with a 10-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift. —Marc D. Grasso, Boston Herald, 5 Mar. 2026

What the journal pressed into sequential ideology, Zakir releases into adjacency. —Anel Rakhimzhanova, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2026

Her final step is using a compression therapy suit called the BallancerPro, which works in a sequential rhythm, moving upward from the feet toward the core. —Avery Newmark, AJC.com, 20 Feb. 2026

Instead of separating story, performance, and environment into sequential phases, IEL allows these elements to evolve together in real time. —Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 18 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1844, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sequential

• credential
• prudential
• tangential
• torrential
• circumferential
• inconsequential
• consequential
• deferential
• evidential
• existential
• exponential
• influential

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