Main Entry: ¹di·rect

Pronunciation: \də-ˈrekt, dī-\

Function: verb

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French directer, from Latin directus straight, from past participle of dirigere to direct — more at dress

Date: 14th century

transitive verb 1 a obsolete : to write (a letter) to a person b : to mark with the name and address of the intended recipient c : to impart orally d : to adapt in expression so as to have particular applicability <arguments directed at the emotions>
2 a : to regulate the activities or course of b : to carry out the organizing, energizing, and supervising of <direct a project> c : to dominate and determine the course of d : to train and lead performances of <direct a movie>
3 : to cause to turn, move, or point undeviatingly or to follow a straight course <X-rays directed through the body>
4 : to point, extend, or project in a specified line or course <direct the nozzle down>
5 : to request or enjoin with authority <the judge directed the jury to acquit>
6 : to show or point out the way for <signs directing us to the entrance>intransitive verb 1 : to point out, prescribe, or determine a course or procedure
2 : to act as director

synonyms see command, conduct