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

He said the device was missing a sleeve, which would have been painted orange with a serial number marking.

From BBC

Name, rank and serial number—even when the topic is Thomas Jefferson.

From The Wall Street Journal

I'm worried what my old man would do if I didn't bring back grandpas rifle ... idek if it had a serial number, but it wouldn't trace to me.

From BBC

The unique serial number on the bank note was the authentication he needed to ensure he was handing the cash over to the right person.

From BBC

The government has charged Routh with attempted assassination of a presidential candidate, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, assaulting a federal officer, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

From BBC