Sequence

Definition

The word "sequence" can mean (1) an ordered set of related things, events, or numbers (noun); (2) a connected series of scenes in film or literature (noun); (3) the succession of one thing after another in time or logic (noun); or (4) to arrange or determine the order of something, especially genetic material (verb).

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsiːkwəns/
• Respelling: SEE‑kwənss

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsiːkwəns/
• Respelling: SEE‑kwəns

Etymology

"Sequence" entered Middle English via Old French sequence, from Latin sequentia “that which follows,” derived from sequī “to follow.” The mathematical sense arose in the 17th century; the genetic‑analysis verb sense dates from the 1970s.

Derivatives

• Sequential (adjective)
• Sequencing (noun / present participle)
• Sequencer (noun)
• Subsequence (noun)
• Consequent (adjective / noun, related)

Synonyms

• Series
• Order
• Progression
• Chain
• Succession

Antonyms

• Randomness
• Disorder
• Chaos
• Disarray

Usage

"Sequence" is common in mathematics, computer science, genetics, film, and everyday speech. Examples: "The Fibonacci sequence begins 0, 1, 1, 2 …," "The opening action sequence was stunning," or "Technicians will sequence the viral genome."

Related Terms

• Algorithm: A set of rules for solving a problem step‑by‑step.
• Permutation: An arrangement of items in a particular order.
• Timeline: A graphical representation of a chronological sequence of events.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An ordered set of related items or events: Refers to things arranged by position, time, or logic.
  • Example: "Follow the installation sequence to avoid errors."
• A connected series of scenes or shots in film or literature: Denotes a coherent narrative unit.
  • Example: "The dream sequence foreshadows the protagonist’s fate."
• A succession of numbers following a specific rule (mathematics): Used to study convergence, patterns, and series.
  • Example: "The arithmetic sequence 3, 6, 9, 12 … has a common difference of 3."
• The order of nucleotides or amino acids in a biomolecule (genetics): Provides the blueprint for biological function.
  • Example: "Scientists compared the DNA sequence of two species."

Verb

• To arrange or place in a particular order: Implies deliberate organization or scheduling.
  • Example: "The events were sequenced to maximize audience engagement."
• To determine or analyze the order of monomers in DNA, RNA, or protein: Refers to laboratory techniques in molecular biology.
  • Example: "Researchers sequenced the pathogen’s genome within 24 hours."