Definition

Describing something that moves or operates in only one direction without the ability to change or reverse direction.

Example

The unidirectional flow of traffic helps to reduce congestion on the roads.

Conversation

Have you seen that new unidirectional microphone they released?

Yeah, I heard it only picks up sound from one direction!

That's great for recording without background noise.

Exactly! It should really improve the audio quality.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unidirectional → It is formed from "uni-" (meaning one) and "direction" (from Latin "directio", meaning a guiding or leading). The word "unidirectional" means having or moving in one direction only.

Memory Tip

Think of 'one' ('uni-') path or 'guiding' ('direction') to remember that 'unidirectional' refers to something that goes in only one direction.

Visually Confused Words