Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Directional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

➡️
Add to dictionary

directional

[dɪˈrɛkʃənəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

referring to movement

The term 'directional' refers to something that indicates or relates to a specific direction. It can be used to describe objects, signals, or data that are oriented in a particular way. For example, in the context of electronics, directional microphones capture sound from a specified direction while minimizing noise from others. In navigation, directional signs guide individuals along a route. This term is widely used in various fields such as geography, physics, and technology.

Synonyms

guiding, navigational, orienting.

Examples of usage

  • The directional microphone picked up the speaker's voice clearly.
  • Directional signage helped us find the right path.
  • The researchers used directional data to analyze patterns in movement.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Directional antennas are crucial in telecommunications, improving signal strength by focusing the transmission in specific directions.
  • Navigation systems in cars use directional technology to help drivers find the best routes.
  • Many modern smartphones have built-in compasses that provide directional information for accuracy in mapping applications.

Psychology

  • Research shows that humans often rely on directional cues in their environments to navigate both physically and socially.
  • Directional behavior can influence decision-making processes, as individuals may follow perceived paths of action.
  • Studies suggest that individuals with a strong sense of direction tend to have better spatial awareness.

Physics

  • In physics, the concept of direction becomes critical in understanding vectors, which have both magnitude and orientation.
  • Directional forces, such as gravity or magnetic fields, always act in specific paths towards points of influence.
  • The study of waves also involves directional properties, determining how energy moves through different mediums.

Art and Design

  • In graphic design, directional elements guide viewers' eyes through a composition, creating visual flow.
  • Directional light is an important aspect in photography, helping to shape mood and focus in images.
  • Artists often use lines and shapes in a way that creates a sense of movement or direction within their work.

Origin of 'directional'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'directio', meaning 'to guide' or 'to manage'.
  • It evolved in the late 19th century to describe devices that help indicate direction.
  • The prefix 'dir-' refers to straightforwardness or guidance, while '-tional' indicates a relationship.

The word 'directional' is derived from the base word 'direction,' which comes from the Latin 'directio,' meaning 'a setting straight.' The suffix '-al' is added to form an adjective, indicating a relationship to direction. This term began to be used in the English language in the late 19th century, coinciding with advancements in navigation and technology, where directional tools and signs became essential. Over time, 'directional' has expanded its application across various fields, including telecommunications, where directional antennas are used to transmit signals more efficiently. Its usage continues to grow in modern contexts, reflecting the importance of directionality in design, communication, and movement.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,574, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.