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

For everyday ease, Miu Miu, Fendi, and Prada introduced sleek, slim sneakers that feel understated yet quietly directional. —Minty Mellon, Vogue, 16 Dec. 2025

Options trade With an IV Rank of 10%, options remain attractively priced for bullish directional exposure. —Tony Zhang, CNBC, 16 Dec. 2025

Previously, archaeologists believed the boat might have originated in Germany, but this new piece of evidence shifted the directional arrow towards the Baltic Sea, with its abundance of pine trees. —Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 15 Dec. 2025

Concertgoers at Sphere Las Vegas know that the pristine, directional sound tops any other venue experience. —Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 11 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