bidirectional

adjective

bi·​di·​rec·​tion·​al ˌbī-də-ˈrek-sh(ə-)nəl 

-dī-

: involving, moving, or taking place in two usually opposite directions

bidirectional flow

bidirectional replication of DNA

bidirectionally adverb

Examples of bidirectional in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Summary Shortness of breath and anxiety have a bidirectional relationship, meaning that shortness of breath can be caused by anxiety, and being short of breath can increase anxiety. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 24 Jan. 2025

This kind of bidirectional flow of ideas and technology has been exemplified by other players. —Zennon Kapron, Forbes, 19 Dec. 2024

More specifically, this puzzle has a bidirectional rebus, which means that the Across and Down entries require different letters to be solved. —Elie Levine, New York Times, 2 Jan. 2025

Point To Specific Situations Even in the case of managers, feedback should be bidirectional and handled with thought and respect. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

bidirectional

adjective

bi·​di·​rec·​tion·​al ˌbī-də-ˈrek-sh(ə-)nəl 

-dī-

: involving, moving, or taking place in usually two opposite directions

Medical Definition

bidirectional

adjective

bi·​di·​rec·​tion·​al ˌbī-də-ˈrek-shnəl, -dī-, -shən-ᵊl 

: involving, moving, or taking place in two usually opposite directions

bidirectional flow of materials in axons

bidirectional replication of DNA

bidirectionally

-ē 

adverb