What does sequence mean?
A sequence is a set of things, actions, or events presented in a meaningful order. The order may be chronological, numerical, logical, spatial, or prescribed by a plan, and it often implies that each stage follows from or prepares for the next. People speak of “a sequence of events,” the “sequence of a DNA molecule,” or the “sequence” in which several tasks must be performed. The verb “to sequence” means to arrange something in an intended order, especially when planning a process or production. In everyday language, sequence is often more precise than a general “series,” because it highlights the relationship and progression among successive elements. In technical fields, it may refer to an ordered list of data, instructions, genes, or mathematical terms. Overall, the word is useful whenever order matters: not simply what is present, but how one part follows another.
An ordered series of elements, actions, or events; also the order or progression in which they occur.
"The final chapter follows the same sequence as the earlier volumes."
When countable, the usual plural is “sequences.” In technical contexts, “sequence” may denote a structured list of data, instructions, or biological material.
To arrange or organize things in a deliberate or specified order.
"The editor sequenced the interview to begin with the most striking answer."
Common in formal, technical, and production contexts; it emphasizes the intentional ordering of elements.
Used for distinct ordered series; the usual indefinite article is “a sequence of.”
"The laboratory compared the genetic sequences of two closely related species."
Sequence comes from the Latin sequi, meaning “to follow”: a sequence is literally an act of following.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sequence come from?
Sequence entered English in the Middle English period from Old French sequence, a borrowing of Latinsequentia, meaning “a following” or “succession.” The Latin word was derived from sequi, “to follow,” the same root found in words such as sequel, consequent, consecutive, and pursue. Over time, sequence developed from a general notion of succession into its modern senses of ordered arrangement and, more recently, ordered data or biological material.
Related word forms
How sequence is actually used
The word is neutral in general use. In mathematics, computing, and biology, it has specialized meanings involving ordered elements, instructions, or biological material. As a verb, “sequence” often suggests careful planning and organization.
Easily confused with sequence
A sequence emphasizes an ordered succession or progression, whereas a series may consist of related items without requiring a particular order.