sequencer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Predominantly technical. Used in music production, genetics, computing, and other specialised fields. Not common in everyday conversation.
Quick answer
What does “sequencer” mean?
A device or software program that arranges items into a specific order or sequence, most commonly used for creating music or for determining the order of genetic material.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device or software program that arranges items into a specific order or sequence, most commonly used for creating music or for determining the order of genetic material.
In general computing, it can refer to any system that sequences data, commands, or operations. In finance, a 'payment sequencer' might schedule transactions. The core concept is the imposition or determination of order.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or spelling differences. The pronunciation differs slightly (see IPA). The concept and applications are identical.
Connotations
Neutral and technical in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally common in technical contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “sequencer” in a Sentence
[Noun] + sequencer (e.g., drum sequencer)sequencer + [verb of operation] (e.g., sequencer runs, loops)use/connect/program + [determiner] + sequencerVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “sequencer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not applicable. 'Sequencer' is not a verb.
American English
- Not applicable. 'Sequencer' is not a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable. 'Sequencer' is not an adverb.
American English
- Not applicable. 'Sequencer' is not an adverb.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable. 'Sequencer' is not an adjective. The related adjective is 'sequential'.
American English
- Not applicable. 'Sequencer' is not an adjective. The related adjective is 'sequential'.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in contexts selling music equipment or biotech.
Academic
Common in genetics, molecular biology, and music technology papers.
Everyday
Very rare, except for musicians or hobbyists discussing music production.
Technical
Primary register. Ubiquitous in music production (DAWs, hardware), bioinformatics, and computing.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “sequencer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “sequencer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “sequencer”
- Confusing 'sequencer' with 'synthesizer'. (A synthesizer makes sound; a sequencer tells it what notes to play and when.)
- Misspelling as 'sequander' or 'seqeuncer'.
- Using it as a verb (to sequence is the verb; sequencer is the noun).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A sequencer controls the order and timing of musical events (notes, rhythms). A sampler records, stores, and plays back audio clips. A sampler may have a sequencer built into it to trigger those clips in a sequence.
No. While its most popular use is in music production, it is a fundamental term in genetics (DNA sequencer) and computing (e.g., a packet sequencer in networking). Any context where determining a precise order is key can use this term.
No. The noun 'sequencer' comes from the verb 'to sequence'. You sequence a genome or sequence a melody; the tool you use to do it is the sequencer.
A classic type of music sequencer where you program a pattern by activating or deactivating individual 'steps' (representing fixed points in time, like 1/16th notes) for each note or drum sound. It's very visual and tactile, common in electronic music hardware.
A device or software program that arranges items into a specific order or sequence, most commonly used for creating music or for determining the order of genetic material.
Sequencer is usually predominantly technical. used in music production, genetics, computing, and other specialised fields. not common in everyday conversation. in register.
Sequencer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsiːkwənsə(r)/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsiːkwənsər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. It is a technical term not used idiomatically.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'SEQUENCE' of notes or DNA bases; a 'SEQUENCER' is the thing (-ER) that creates or reads that sequence.
Conceptual Metaphor
A CONDUCTOR (orchestrating events in time), A READER (interpreting a linear code), A PATTERN WEAVER.
Practice
Quiz
In which field would you LEAST likely encounter the term 'sequencer' in its primary technical sense?