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

Zoox is aiming to launch a commercial ride-hailing service similar to Uber and Lyft that relies on its purpose-built bidirectional vehicles.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2025

“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

Therefore, a new optical device capable of bidirectional and omnidirectional wavelength adjustment is needed to maximize the utilization of wavelength control technology.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2024