Origin: Latin suffix -ence
Sequence has 9 different meanings across 2 categories:
serial arrangement in which things follow in logical order or a recurrent pattern
"the sequence of names was alphabetical"
"he invented a technique to determine the sequence of base pairs in DNA"
a following of one thing after another in time
"the doctor saw a sequence of patients"
several repetitions of a melodic phrase in different keys
"The composer's genius was revealed when he wove a haunting sequence of several repetitions of a melodic phrase in different keys throughout the symphony."
A set of things next to each other in a set order; a series
"The chef explained that every dish on the menu was part of a carefully planned sequence designed to build flavor gradually."
In plain English: A sequence is an ordered list of things that follow one after another in a specific pattern.
"The movie follows the sequence of events that led to the final chase scene."
Usage: Use sequence when referring to items arranged in a specific, logical order rather than just being grouped together. This noun is often confused with the verb form or synonyms like "series," but it specifically emphasizes the step-by-step progression from one element to the next.
arrange in a sequence
"The librarian carefully arranged the books on the shelf in alphabetical sequence."
to arrange in an order
"The librarian asked us to sequence the returned books by genre before shelving them again."
In plain English: To sequence something is to put its parts in a specific order.
"The team will sequence the patient's DNA to identify any genetic mutations."
The word "sequence" comes from the Old French term sequence, which originally meant a series of cards or matching verses. This traces back to the Latin verb sequī, meaning "to follow."