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

Nonetheless, seven-day viewing is usually directional and the pattern of decline will likely be reflected in Doctor Who’s final ratings. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 18 June 2025

Discretionary directional macro funds, as measured by the HFRI Macro Discretionary Directional Index, delivered positive results—up 0.70% in April and 5.43% YTD—benefiting from their ability to tactically adjust to shifting market dynamics. —Steven Brod, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025

The opening chase scene in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness sounds big and detailed, with the upward-firing drivers giving solid directional imaging of rubble flying overhead. —PC Magazine, 16 June 2025

Related Stories The Paris Texas heels mark the latest entry in a string of directional footwear choices. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 7 June 2025

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