serial number

noun

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

   the serial number of an automobile engine.

serial number

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of serial number¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

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

Read more on 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.

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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.

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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.

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But collectors and watch scholars have noted that the timepiece in question featured a serial number that dated it to 1965.

Read more on Los Angeles Times