bidirectional

American  

[bahy-di-rek-shuh-nl, -dahy-] / ˌbaɪ dɪˈrɛk ʃə nl, -daɪ- /

adjective

1. capable of reacting or functioning in two, usually opposite, directions.

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bidirectional British  

/ ˌbaɪdɪˈrɛkʃənəl /

adjective

1. computing (of a printhead) capable of printing from left to right and from right to left

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Other Word Forms

• bidirectionality
  noun
• bidirectionally
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of bidirectional

First recorded in 1940–45; bi- ¹ + directional

Example Sentences

The company’s product roadmap is positioning it for improved margins and the value proposition for customers, while its bidirectional charging technology is well-suited for 800V data center applications, according to the analysts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 4, 2026

In “Super Agers,” Topol writes at length about the bidirectional communication between gut hormones and the brain, and calls it critical to healthy immune function.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2025

A new paper led by a Concordia researcher examines how social isolation, loneliness and frailty affect one another and the bidirectional relationship they exert as an individual gets older.

From Science Daily • Nov. 14, 2024

“We have a bidirectional relationship between financial stress and mental health,” Abramson said.

From Salon • Sep. 25, 2024

In California, for example, the state Senate has considered requiring EVs to be bidirectional.

From Slate • Jul. 18, 2024