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
  • The Astros went 87-75 last season to finish second in the division and miss the playoffs, snapping a streak of eight consecutive appearances.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026
  • Connecticut’s annual count found 3,847 people experiencing homelessness this year, marking five consecutive years of increases.
    — David Rich, Hartford Courant, 14 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Authorities in Colima said the risks remained low but warned that heavy rainfall could cause damage because successive storms had already saturated the ground along the Pacific coast.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 18 Oct. 2026
  • But successive 5-7 records slowed the momentum, and through it all, no victories over Kansas State and an 0-2 record against Missouri.
    — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 17 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Successional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/successional. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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