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

Tools that track search activity can provide a directional view of how many people are actively looking for a specific service in your area. —Matthew Nigro, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

Cities are even asked to ensure the FIFA names for the venues are used for all local directional signage from at least 14 days prior to the opening match, while the usual stadium name is not to be used in governmental communications. —Adam Crafton, New York Times, 11 June 2026

The leads can be overwrought, shouting lines across the stage while the Gothic-style doorways, sharp directional lighting and ooh-ahh practical effects do their complicated dance. —John Wenzel, Denver Post, 4 June 2026

Researchers are developing a facial recognition method for doing this, known as volumetric directional patterning. —Vijayan Asari, The Conversation, 2 June 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