Serial

Definition

Serial refers to something occurring in a series, successive, or having a structure involving a series. It's often used to describe a story or play appearing in regular installments, or a unique number identifying a particular item in a series.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪəriəl/
• Respelling: SEER-ee-əl (with "SEER" as in "fear," "ee" as a separate syllable, and "əl" as in "angel")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsɪəriəl/
• Respelling: SEER-ee-əl (similar to American English, with "SEER" as in "fear," "ee" as a separate syllable, and "əl" as in "angel")

In both dialects, "serial" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SEER." The word is characterized by the elongated "ee" sound in the first syllable, followed by two additional syllables, making it distinct and consistent across both American and British English pronunciations.

Etymology

The word serial originates from the Late Latin word serialis, from Latin series, which means a row, sequence, or series. It entered the English language in the early 19th century.

Derivatives

• Serialization
• Serialize
• Serially
• Serialist
• Serialism

Synonyms

• Sequential
• Successive
• Consecutive

Antonyms

• Concurrent
• Simultaneous
• Nonsequential

Usage

The term serial is commonly used in literature, electronics, computer science, and various other fields to signify a sequence, order, or the act of arranging in a series.

Related Terms

• Series
• Sequence
• Serial Number
• Serial Port
• Serial Communication

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Occurring in a series or sequence.
• Example: The serial production of goods is essential for maintaining inventory levels.

• Pertaining to a story or play appearing in regular installments.
• Example: The serial novel was published monthly in a literary magazine.

Noun

• A unique number identifying a particular item in a series.
• Example: The serial number is found on the back of the device.

• A story or play appearing in regular installments.
• Example: The mystery serial kept readers eagerly awaiting the next installment.