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Directional: meaning, definitions and examples

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directional

 

[ dɪˈrɛkʃənəl ]

Adjective
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

Translations of the word "directional" in other languages:

🇵🇹 direcional

🇮🇳 दिशात्मक

🇩🇪 richtungweisend

🇮🇩 arah

🇺🇦 направляючий

🇵🇱 kierunkowy

🇯🇵 方向の

🇫🇷 directionnel

🇪🇸 direccional

🇹🇷 yönlendirici

🇰🇷 방향의

🇸🇦 اتجاهي

🇨🇿 směrový

🇸🇰 smerový

🇨🇳 方向的

🇸🇮 usmerjevalni

🇮🇸 stefnandi

🇰🇿 бағыттық

🇬🇪 მიმართულებითი

🇦🇿 istiqamət

🇲🇽 direccional

Word origin

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.