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

One is a compass-like mechanism, whereby the Earth exerts a pull on magnetic particles in a bird’s upper beak that relays directional information via a large nerve in the cranium. —ArsTechnica, 28 May 2026

The penguin inspiration comes from how the animals manage heat using layered structures, directional insulation, waterproofing, and environmental adaptation. —New Atlas, 25 May 2026

An unexpected directional change may bring money questions to the forefront. —Usa Today, USA Today, 25 May 2026

From the quiet elegance of a silk slip to the directional edge of a denim midi there's an array of styles to suit every occasion. —Vanessa Powell, InStyle, 24 May 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