serial
“serial” means “serial” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
serial
Also: sequential
📝 In Action
Necesito el número serial de tu computadora para la garantía.
A2I need your computer's serial number for the warranty.
La policía está investigando a un posible asesino serial.
B1The police are investigating a possible serial killer.
El dispositivo tiene un puerto serial en la parte trasera.
B2The device has a serial port on the back.
serial
Also: soap opera
📝 In Action
Mi abuela siempre escuchaba un serial en la radio.
B1My grandmother always listened to a serial on the radio.
El periódico publica un serial sobre la historia del país.
B2The newspaper is publishing a serial about the country's history.
Este serial de televisión tiene más de quinientos episodios.
C1This TV serial has more than five hundred episodes.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: serial
Question 1 of 3
Which word would you use to describe a crime committed by the same person multiple times?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'series', which describes a row, a chain, or a sequence of things joined together.
First recorded: 19th century (as a modern adaptation)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'serial' the same as 'cereal'?
No. Although they sound very similar, 'cereal' refers to grains or breakfast food, while 'serial' refers to things in a sequence or a serialized story.
When should I use 'serial' instead of 'serie'?
Use 'serial' for technical items (serial number) or specific old-fashioned radio dramas. Use 'serie' for almost everything else, like TV shows or a series of events.
Is 'asesino serial' correct Spanish?
Yes, it is very common in Latin America. However, in Spain, you will more likely hear 'asesino en serie'.