serial number

American  

noun

1. a number, usually one of a series, assigned for identification.

   the serial number of an automobile engine.

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serial number British  

noun

1. any of the consecutive numbers assigned to machines, tools, books, etc

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Etymology

Origin of serial number

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

When a rare bottle has a serial number to trace its origin, a buyer on the secondary market likely won’t see it until the purchase is complete.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026

The text messages also included photos, including one of a Javelin missile system whose serial number matched one that he had signed out from the School of Infantry West, court documents show.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

His has a photo of Paul Mescal as Sir Paul, and on the back has its own serial number.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2026

“There’s no unique serial number on a load of lobster meat,” Burroughs said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 29, 2025

SD-03 found the serial number that matched the one on my requisition form.

From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline