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Definition of periodical

periodical

/ˌpɪə.riˈɒd.ɪ.kəl/
pe · ri · od · i · cal
Adverb:periodically
•
Plural:periodicals
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periodical Lexical Profile

periodical Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A magazine, academic journal, or other publication that is issued at regular intervals.

Example

"The university library subscribes to hundreds of scientific periodicals."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Occurring or appearing at regular or recurring intervals.

Example

"The equipment requires periodical maintenance to ensure optimal performance."

2

Published at regular intervals, such as weekly, monthly, or quarterly.

Example

"She contributed several essays to nineteenth-century periodical literature."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for periodical
Antonyms
View all antonyms for periodical

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'periodic' and 'periodical' overlap as adjectives, 'periodic' is strongly preferred for events that recur at regular intervals, whereas 'periodical' is most commonly used as a noun meaning a magazine or academic journal.

• Rhymes for periodical

• Nearby Words

perimeter
period
periodic
periodical
periodically
periodontal
peripheral

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the early 17th century from 'periodic' plus the suffix '-al', ultimately tracing back via Latin 'periodicus' to Ancient Greek 'periodikos' (coming round at intervals), from 'periodos' (a going around or cycle).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Periodical. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/periodical
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