successional

Definition of successionalnext
as in consecutive
following one after another without others coming in between the successional stages that an area goes through following a devastating forest fire

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of successional This biological soil crust immobilizes shifting dunes and establishes a nutrient-rich substrate essential for the successional development of plant life. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 1 Jan. 2026 Periodic burning or disking, to maintain early successional growth and keep a field from becoming a young forest, tends to stimulate the growth of forbs. Will Brantley, Outdoor Life, 29 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for successional
Adjective
  • Coach Nick Sirianni needed a new offensive coordinator for the fifth consecutive season after the offense’s regression in 2025 prompted the biggest change of the Sirianni era.
    Zach Berman, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • If the forecast holds, Wednesday would mark the 12th consecutive day with temperatures at or above 90 degrees in the metro area — extending one of the latest 90-degree streaks on record in Kansas City.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 9 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • At club level, though, this was a second successive disappointing campaign.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • The Iranian economy has certainly felt the effects of all the successive restrictions.
    Esfandyar Batmanghelidj, Foreign Affairs, 8 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Successional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/successional. Accessed 14 Sep. 2026.

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