successional

Definition of successionalnext
as in consecutive
following one after another without others coming in between the successional stages that an area goes through following a devastating forest fire

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of successional This biological soil crust immobilizes shifting dunes and establishes a nutrient-rich substrate essential for the successional development of plant life. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 1 Jan. 2026 Periodic burning or disking, to maintain early successional growth and keep a field from becoming a young forest, tends to stimulate the growth of forbs. — Will Brantley, Outdoor Life, 29 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for successional
Adjective
  • To [React with exaggerated surprise] is to DO A DOUBLE TAKE — as in, to take out double letters (not consecutive ones, mind you).
    — Sam Corbin, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2026
  • The loss offset the benefits gained by stealing Game 2 at Dodger Stadium, and now the Braves must defeat the two-time reigning champs in consecutive games to continue their season.
    — Gabriel Burns, AJC.com, 7 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • European institutions have warned of democratic backsliding in Serbia in successive reports tracking the progress of candidate countries.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026
  • Those that do are also often successive term limits, rather than the cumulative limit proposed in the referendum.
    — Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 1 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Successional.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/successional. Accessed 10 Oct. 2026.

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