sequential
UK[sɪˈkwenʃl]US[sɪˈkwenʃl]
adj
Following a particular order or sequence; consecutive.
adj
Relating to or arranged in a sequence.
Morpheme Breakdown
sequent
ial
sequent
following
ial
adjective suffix
Etymology
The word 'sequential' is built upon the Latin verb sequi, meaning 'to follow'. This root, which can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European sekw- (to follow), is the source of numerous English words concerning order and consequence, such as 'sequence', 'consequence', and 'subsequent'. The suffix '-ial', derived from Latin -ialis, transforms the noun 'sequent' (one that follows) into an adjective. Thus, the literal construction 'of or relating to following' elegantly evolved into the modern abstract meaning of things arranged in or characterized by a logical, consecutive order.
Analysis
Structure: sequent (following) + ial (adjective suffix)
- sequent: From Latin sequens (present participle of sequi, 'to follow'), meaning 'following'.
- ial: A suffix of Latin origin (-ialis), used to form adjectives meaning 'of or relating to'.
Examples
The data must be processed in sequential order.
He explained the sequential steps of the experiment.
The film uses a non-sequential narrative structure.