Synonyms of periodicnext
1
a
: occurring or recurring at regular intervals
b
: occurring repeatedly from time to time
2
a
: consisting of or containing a series of repeated stages, processes, or digits : cyclic
periodic decimals
a periodic vibration
b
: being a function any value of which recurs at regular intervals
3
: expressed in or characterized by periodic sentences

Examples of periodic in a Sentence

He takes the car in for periodic oil changes. sent out periodic reminders about the office dress code
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The interface between regulators and their licensees will move from periodic submissions to continuous data exchange. Matthew White, Fortune, 7 July 2026 Rather than treating learning as a periodic training activity, leading organizations are embedding learning into the fabric of the organization as a core capability for navigating continuous disruption. Michael Edmondson, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 El Niño is a periodic weather cycle that features hotter-than-normal ocean temperatures in the equatorial tropical Pacific, along with corresponding shifts in weather patterns across this region. Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 6 July 2026 Adult males go through musth, a periodic condition that heightens their aggression. ABC News, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for periodic

Word History

First Known Use

1650, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of periodic was in 1650

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Periodic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/periodic. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

periodic

adjective
1
: occurring at regular intervals
2
: consisting of or containing a series of repeated stages
periodic vibrations

Medical Definition

periodic

adjective
: occurring or recurring at regular intervals
periodic epidemics

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