directive

[dih-rek-tiv, dahy-]

adjective

1. serving to direct; directing.

   a directive board.

2. Psychology.,  pertaining to a type of psychotherapy in which the therapist actively offers advice and information rather than dealing only with information supplied by the patient.

noun

1. an authoritative instruction or direction; specific order.

   a new directive by the president on foreign aid.

directive

/ daɪ-, dɪˈrɛktɪv /

noun

1. an instruction; order

adjective

1. tending to direct; directing

2. indicating direction

Other Word Forms

• self-directive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of directive¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English word from Medieval Latin word dīrēctīvus. See direct, -ive

Example Sentences

The White House backed down, but Nixon’s directive had been recorded.

From Salon

In September, the Department of Homeland Security issued a new directive that will allow the agency — which administers and oversees immigration applications — to enforce immigration law with “special agents.”

From Los Angeles Times

His new directives would bring them back to a higher level, he said.

From BBC

Focusing on what he saw as the eroding strength of the military, Hegseth announced a sweeping set of directives aimed at reversing what he called decades of “politically correct” rules of engagement.

From Salon

“While publicly touting their hospitals’ qualifications as reliable emergency services centers, Dignity Health prioritized its own religious directives over the best interests of Rachel’s health and well-being,” the lawsuit alleges.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• decree 
• edict 
• injunction 
• mandate 
• memo 
• memorandum 
• message 
• notice 
• order 
• regulation 
• ruling