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

The idea here is to prevent affiliates from aggressively taking positions based on their expectations for how an outcome will resolve, though the CFTC acknowledges that affiliates can still end up with directional risk as prices move. — Dan Bernstein, Sportico.com, 7 Aug. 2026

The truck will come with BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free highway driving assistant, and feature bi-directional power capability. — Morgan Korn, ABC News, 6 Aug. 2026

Anywho, every not-a-Ranchero will have the hardware necessary for Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving aid, while offering bi-directional charging and more passenger volume than a Toyota RAV4 with a bed and a frunk. — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 6 Aug. 2026

Travelers are asked to obey all directional signage in the area to ensure worker and motorist safety. — Dj Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 6 Aug. 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