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

Currently, my team is collecting sequential blood samples for up to a year from patients with shingles who later develop post-herpetic neuralgia, as well as from patients with shingles that resolves with no lingering pain. — Andrew Bubak, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2026

How Compression Boots Work At-home compression boots are wearable devices that use sequential air pressure along the legs to mimic massage and clinical intermittent pneumatic compression, known as IPC. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Sep. 2026

The company plans sequential Core-unit replacements on a roughly seven-year cycle during an IMSR plant’s operating life. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2026

Despite year-over-year sales growth, a sequential decline concerned investors. — Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 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