directional

American  

[dih-rek-shuh-nl, dahy-] / dɪˈrɛk ʃə nl, daɪ- /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or indicating direction in space.

2. Radio.  adapted for determining the direction of signals received, or for transmitting signals in a given direction.

   a directional antenna.

3. of, relating to, or providing guidance or leadership.

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directional British  

/ dɪˈrɛkʃənəl, daɪ- /

adjective

1. of or relating to a spatial direction

2. electronics

   1. having or relating to an increased sensitivity to radio waves, sound waves, nuclear particles, etc, coming from a particular direction

   2. (of an aerial) transmitting or receiving radio waves more effectively in some directions than in others

3. physics electronics

   1. concentrated in, following, or producing motion in a particular direction

   2. indicating direction

4. indicating the direction something, such as a fashion trend, might take

   directional fashion looks

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Other Word Forms

• directionality noun
• directionally adverb
• undirectional adjective

Etymology

Origin of directional

First recorded in 1605–15; direction + -al ¹

Example Sentences

"Around the age of 32, we see the most directional changes in wiring and largest overall shift in trajectory, compared to all the other turning points," said Mousley.

From Science Daily

You can adjust the volume, directional sound amplification and background noise suppression from the mobile app or a remote.

From The Wall Street Journal

The game demands dexterity as the player uses every shoulder button alongside the directional pad, and every button has multiple uses depending on the mode Link is in, whether it’s fuse or Ultra Hand.

From Washington Post

In the daytime, entomologists knew, such directional instincts help flying insects stay level by keeping their backs pointed toward sunlight, even during aerial maneuvers.

From New York Times

Additional requirements are sealed walls, two self-closing doors, and directional airflow and filtered ventilation.

From Washington Post