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.
1
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.1823, Royal Institution of Great Britain (contributor), The Quarterly Journal - Volume 14, page 318:
2
Of a person 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.
2 more examples
"No I could not!" Kate looked at Max sternly. "I am not a cheat and I am not a serial monogamist."2012, Rachel James, Salisbury, Lulu.com, page 10:
“It’s easier to sort of attribute these deaths to a boogeyman serial killer as opposed to confronting the real possible reasons that these deaths are happening,” she said, pointing to mental health, substance abuse and housing issues.2025 October 27, Dalia Faheid, “Bodies keep being recovered from the bayous around Houston. Why officials are convinced it’s not the work of a serial killer”, in CNN, archived from the original on 28 Oct 2025:
3
Published or produced in installments.
4
Grammar, Human sciences, Linguistics, Sciences Of or relating to a grammatical aspect relating to an action that is habitual and ongoing.
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.
1
A literary or dramatic work, such as a radio or television programme, published in installments, often numbered and without a specified end.
2
A publication issued in successive parts, often numbered and with no predetermined end.
3
Computing, Engineering, Mathematics, Natural sciences, Physical sciences, SciencesSlang A serial number, esp. one required to activate software.
Go to these sites for serials, cracks and keygens.
4
UK 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.1992, James Donald, Ali Rattansi, Race, Culture and Difference, page 66:
The serials worked in pairs, one with long shields and one with short shields.2013, Tony Moore, Policing Notting Hill: Fifty Years of Turbulence, page 324:
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.
1
to assign a serial number to (especially of aircraft)