directional

adjective

di·​rec·​tion·​al də-ˈrek-sh(ə-)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

Sethi said the company’s aim is to help its customers make the kinds of sophisticated trades and directional bets that otherwise would be available only to professional investors. —Cory Schouten, semafor.com, 14 Apr. 2026

Think of it as hollowing out the wood and turning it into a highly porous sponge—but one that still retains its directional structure. —Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 12 Apr. 2026

The unknown entering the game was Sheehan, who had been working through directional issues in his delivery. —Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 12 Apr. 2026

Follow directional signage and allow extra time to park or seek alternative parking options on Schoephoester Road or Route 20 & 75 if necessary. —Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 11 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for directional

• affectional
• correctional
• inflectional
• bidirectional
• intersectional
• multidirectional
• omnidirectional
• unidirectional
• sectional

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