Serial

/ˈsɪəriəl/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A story or play appearing in regular installments.
He wrote a serial that captivated the readers over several months.
A series of related events or items.
The detective investigated a serial of thefts that spanned the entire city.
adjective
Forming part of a series; occurring in a sequence.
The artist created a serial artwork that consisted of multiple interconnected pieces.
Published or released in regular installments.
The magazine is published as a serial, with new issues coming out every month.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin 'serialis', from 'series'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

serial killer
A person who commits a series of two or more murders, often with a psychological motive.
serial number
A unique number assigned for identification purposes.
serial comedy
A type of comedy show that features a continuing storyline.

Related Words

series
A sequence of related events, objects, or people.
sequence
A particular order in which related events or things follow each other.

Slang Meanings

A person who engages in repetitive criminal acts.
He's not just a thief; he's a serial shoplifter.
Referring to someone who has a strong obsession with something.
She's a serial binge-watcher when it comes to her favorite shows.