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

According to a market analysis from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), supply chain adjustments and elevated shipping uncertainty kept time-sensitive freight demand steady despite the sequential softening of global trade indicators. —Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 28 May 2026

One key to that was the new dual-clutch paddle-shift transmission, replacing the sequential manual gearbox known for harsh shifts in many circumstances. —Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 28 May 2026

The teams responsible for those decisions need to be in continuous communication, not sequential review cycles. —David Natroshvili, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

Amazon's chip business, which includes Graviton, Tranium, and Nitro, saw 40% sequential growth in the latest quarter. —Matthew J. Belvedere, CNBC, 20 May 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
• existential
• exponential
• influential
• nonessential

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