serial
noun
- something provided in a sequence, not all at once
- literary work published as a series of parts
adjective
- repeated, with variation
- continuing plot that unfolds in a sequential episode-by-episode fashion
Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /ˈsɪə.ɹɪ.əl/ / /ˈsɪɹ.i.əl/
adj
Etymology: Formed as series + -al, on model of Latin seriālis, from seriēs + -ālis. Cognate to Italian seriale. First use appears c. 1823. See cite below.
- Having to do with or arranged in a series.
“These singular ribs have a very different direction from that of the serial teeth of the hinge, and cannot be taken for teeth.”
- Who performs a specified action or course of action repeatedly or regularly.
“The serial killer had a string of victims across seven states.”
“He was a serial entrepreneur, always coming up with a new way to make cash.”
- Published or produced in installments.
- Of or relating to a grammatical aspect relating to an action that is habitual and ongoing.
noun
Etymology: Formed as series + -al, on model of Latin seriālis, from seriēs + -ālis. Cognate to Italian seriale. First use appears c. 1823. See cite below.
- A literary or dramatic work, such as a radio or television programme, published in installments, often numbered and without a specified end.
- A publication issued in successive parts, often numbered and with no predetermined end.
- A serial number, esp. one required to activate software.
“Go to these sites for serials, cracks and keygens.”
- A unit of police officers equipped with shields to tackle a riot.
“The practice, especially among members of shield serials, of 'whooping like cowboys and indians' and beating of truncheons on riot shields must cease as this tends to frighten and intimidate rioters.”
“The serials worked in pairs, one with long shields and one with short shields.”
verb
Etymology: Formed as series + -al, on model of Latin seriālis, from seriēs + -ālis. Cognate to Italian seriale. First use appears c. 1823. See cite below.
- to assign a serial number to (especially of aircraft)