Periodic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that happens at regular intervals over a period of time, often in cycles.

• The company conducts periodic reviews of its safety procedures
• She receives periodic updates from her supervisor

Describes something that happens consistently and at predictable intervals. It suggests a routine or pattern.

• She goes for her regular morning run every day
• The trains arrive at regular intervals

Used to describe something that happens repeatedly, often over a long period of time. It suggests a predictable or expected pattern.

• His recurring headaches have made it hard for him to concentrate
• The town hosts a recurring annual festival

Describes something that starts and stops irregularly or occurs occasionally. This word often suggests unpredictability.

• The intermittent rain made it difficult to plan the outdoor event
• He had intermittent internet connection issues throughout the day

Used when referring to something that happens at regular intervals or is recurring.

• The team holds periodic meetings to discuss progress.
• Periodic maintenance of your car is necessary to keep it running smoothly.

Used when describing something made of metal or having qualities of metal, such as a shiny surface or conductive properties.

• The sculpture had a shiny metallic finish.
• Metallic sounds echoed through the factory.

Used when referring to substances that are not derived from living organisms, often used in chemistry.

• Inorganic chemistry focuses on elements and compounds that do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds.
• The sample contained various inorganic materials.

Used when referring to substances formed by a reaction or the study of substances and their properties.

• The lab is equipped to handle different chemical reactions.
• Exposure to chemical compounds could be harmful without proper protection.