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

Since launching in 2024, the 2025 FNAA-winning brand has built a following among stylists and celebrities for almond-toe pumps and directional heels crafted in Portugal from Italian leathers. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 3 Feb. 2026

Investors are responding to valuation gaps, earnings growth, and a world where capital and trade are increasingly multi directional. —Krysta Escobar, CNBC, 30 Jan. 2026

Like the Parachute percale sheets, these have no directional tags. —Brandi Fuller, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2026

Chip-Off creates directional fading with greater depth, contrast, and definition. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 26 Jan. 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