adj
Uncommon
periodic
pih-ree-O-dihk
Periodic (adj) means happening again and again at regular intervals. Example: “The machine needs periodic maintenance to keep running smoothly.”
adj
1
Happening again and again at regular intervals.
"The machine needs periodic maintenance to keep running smoothly."
"Periodic flooding is common along this stretch of river."
"We hold periodic meetings, roughly once a month, to check how the project is going."
How to use periodic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishRecurring regularly, at set intervals rather than constantly or just once.
Common mistake
Periodic means "at intervals," not just "occasional" — something periodic is expected to keep recurring on a schedule.
Common pairings
periodic review
periodic table
periodic checkup
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The machine needs _____ maintenance to keep running smoothly.
Etymology
From French périodique, ultimately from Greek periodos ("cycle").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for periodic
See all rhymes for periodic →Frequently asked questions
What does “periodic” mean?
The word “periodic” means happening again and again at regular intervals. In plain terms, recurring regularly, at set intervals rather than constantly or just once.
How do you pronounce “periodic”?
“Periodic” is pronounced pih-ree-O-dihk (/ˌpɪɹiˈɑdɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “periodic” in a sentence?
Here is “periodic” used in a sentence: “The machine needs periodic maintenance to keep running smoothly.”
What is another word for “periodic”?
Words with a similar meaning to “periodic” include cyclic, cyclical, periodical and regular.
What is the opposite of “periodic”?
The opposite of “periodic” — its antonyms — are acyclical, irregular, noncyclic, noncyclical and unperiodic.
What part of speech is “periodic”?
“Periodic” is an adjective.
Where does the word “periodic” come from?
The word “periodic” comes from French. From French périodique, ultimately from Greek periodos ("cycle").
Is “periodic” a common word?
“Periodic” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between periodic and sporadic?
Periodic describes something happening again and again at regular, predictable intervals, while sporadic describes events occurring irregularly and unpredictably.
What is the difference between periodic and periodical?
Both derive from the same root and are often interchangeable as adjectives, but "periodical" is also commonly used as a noun referring to a magazine or journal published at regular intervals.
What does "periodic" mean in "the periodic table"?
In the periodic table of elements, "periodic" refers to the recurring pattern of chemical properties that appears at regular intervals as atomic number increases.
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