directional

adjective

di·​rec·​tion·​al də-ˈrek-shnəl 

-shə-nᵊl

1

: of, relating to, or indicating direction in space:

a

: suitable for detecting the direction from which radio signals come or for sending out radio signals in one direction only

a directional antenna

b

: operating most effectively in a particular direction

a directional microphone

2

: relating to direction or guidance especially of thought or effort

directionality

di-ˌrek-shə-ˈna-lə-tē 

noun

Examples of directional in a Sentence

We work with maps to improve the students' directional skills.

the directional signal lights on an automobile

The radio has a directional antenna.

Recent Examples on the Web

With a focus on rare fashion from the 1980s to the present day, the vintage expert has a keen eye for more directional archival pieces – think Helmut Lang, Comme des Garçons, and Junya Watanabe. —Emily Chan, Vogue, 22 Apr. 2024

Under perfect conditions, when all systems are a go, this blend of internal navigation abilities can also improve directional accuracy. —Cody Cottier, Discover Magazine, 1 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

directional

adjective

di·​rec·​tion·​al də-ˈrek-sh(ə-)nəl 

dī-

1

: relating to or indicating direction

directional signal lights on an automobile

2

: relating to direction or guidance especially of thought or effort