successive

adjective

suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈse-siv How to pronounce successive (audio)
Synonyms of successive
1
: following in order : following each other without interruption
their fourth successive victory
2
: characterized by or produced in succession
successively adverb
successiveness noun

Synonyms of successive

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Examples of successive in a Sentence

a trait found in successive generations made the honor roll for three successive school terms
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Earl showed precision with both short and deep balls, like on successive 45-yard scoring tosses. — Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 29 Aug. 2026 The actor spoke to The Associated after a final rehearsal Tuesday, ahead of a premiere that has been repeatedly delayed due to successive Russian attacks. — ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026 The top three positions have now remained unchanged for two successive quarters. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 27 Aug. 2026 In his valedictory address, Rajan attacked successive governments for mismanaging the BBC by repeatedly reviewing its operations without properly addressing the forces that are contributing to its decline. — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for successive

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of successive was in the 15th century

Rhymes for successive

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Browse Nearby Words

succession state
successive
successivity
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Cite this Entry

“Successive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/successive. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

successive

adjective
suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈses-iv How to pronounce successive (audio)
: following in order : following each other without interruption
failed in three successive tries
successively adverb
successiveness noun

Legal Definition

successive

adjective
suc·​ces·​sive sək-ˈse-siv How to pronounce successive (audio)
1
a
: of or relating to succession
successive rights
b
: created by succession
2
: following in order : following each other without interruption
successive bankruptcy filings
3
: of, relating to, or being a petition for habeas corpus that raises a claim already adjudicated
successively adverb
successiveness noun
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