Homonym: serial (Sequential)
A "serial" refers to a work, such as a story or a program, that is published or released in parts over time. This format allows creators to develop characters and plots gradually, keeping audiences engaged and eager for the next installment. Examples of serials include novels released chapter by chapter and television shows that air episodes weekly.
In the context of crime, a "serial" can also describe a person who commits a series of related crimes, often with a similar method or motive. This term is commonly used in discussions about serial killers, who commit multiple murders over time, typically with a psychological pattern.