Definition

Relating to a position in a sequence or series, such as first, second, or third.

Example

In the race, she finished in third place, which is her ordinal position.

Conversation

Did you know that the ordinal numbers are different from cardinal numbers?

Yeah, like first, second, and third, right?

Exactly! I always get confused when I have to use ordinal numbers in writing.

It takes practice, but it becomes easier over time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of number that indicates position or order in a sequence, such as first, second, or third.

Example

In the race, she finished in third place, which is an ordinal position.

Conversation

Did you know that today is the first in the series of ordinal numbers?

Yeah, I learned about those in math class!

It's interesting how we use ordinal numbers to describe positions.

Root Explanation

Ordinal → It is formed from "ordo" (meaning order) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "ordinal" refers to something that relates to the order or position in a sequence.

Memory Tip

Think of 'order' ('ordo') to remember that 'ordinal' relates to the position in a sequence.

Visually Confused Words