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

Options trade With an IV rank of 10%, options remain attractively priced for bullish directional exposure. —Tony Zhang, CNBC, 10 Dec. 2025

CFMoto has also equipped the 1000MT-X with ride-by-wire, a six-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch, and a bi-directional quickshifter. —New Atlas, 9 Dec. 2025

The footage highlights the robot’s smooth execution of quick starts, directional changes, and sharp braking within the confines of a complex. —Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 8 Dec. 2025

Each look favored a single focal technique — subtle lingerie detailing, lace overlay, sheer movement — but all kept to a palette of satin, soft tailoring and directional lines. —Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 7 Dec. 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