directional

adjective

di·​rec·​tion·​al də-ˈrek-shnəl How to pronounce directional (audio)
-shə-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 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 Take this path, which is also marked with a directional sign. Maura Fox, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2024 This causes the light to become somewhat directional, rather than spread out evenly as normal. Daniel Johnson, Discover Magazine, 14 Mar. 2024 Customers should look curbside at Terminal B for white traffic cones, directional signs and valets dressed in orange shirts with valet logos. Steve Rosen, Kansas City Star, 31 Jan. 2024 The jungle is filled with deadly critters and bugs that sap the will and health of travelers who have to make it without directional signs or any nearby access to human civilization — plumbing or health-care facilities. Michael Brendan Dougherty, National Review, 5 Jan. 2024 Whereas a resolution feels like a directive with two possible outcomes—success or failure—intentions are directional and represent an ongoing effort. TIME, 27 Dec. 2023 To call for that weapon or bomber, players will need to hold L1 and press a series of buttons on the directional pad. Gieson Cacho, The Mercury News, 26 Feb. 2024 The Prologue presents Honda’s typical narrow horizontal vents while the Blazer uses the directional circular vents that have become a Chevy signature. Mark Phelan, Detroit Free Press, 22 Feb. 2024 Zendaya’s directional nude suit shows his skills at taking classic garments, like a jumpsuit or a trench coat, and transforming them into new silhouettes inspired by street and youth culture. Alice Newbold, Glamour, 21 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'directional.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of directional was in 1842

Dictionary Entries Near directional

Cite this Entry

“Directional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/directional. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

directional

adjective
di·​rec·​tion·​al də-ˈrek-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce directional (audio)
dī-
1
: relating to or indicating direction
directional signal lights on an automobile
2
: relating to direction or guidance especially of thought or effort

More from Merriam-Webster on directional

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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