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

Traces of 2024’s Western trend are still present in collections, though watered down compared to the directional styles seen from Louis Vuitton. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 13 Jan. 2025

Image: My Arcade With a six-inch screen surrounded by generous bezels plus a directional pad and action buttons on either side, the Super Retro Champ doesn’t prioritize portability. —Andrew Liszewski, The Verge, 9 Jan. 2025

Your strategic leaders must nest their broad directional choices within the culture while making sure everyone is clear on the intent and their degrees of freedom. —George Bradt, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Types of Injuries There are various types of hyperextension injuries, including: Ankle hyperextension: This injury is common in sports that involve sudden directional changes such as basketball and soccer. —Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1842, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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