adj.
Pronunciation: d ə - ' rekt, d ī -
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French directer, from Latin directus straight, from past participle of dirigere to direct ― more at DRESS
Date: 14th century
transitive verb
1 a obsolete : to write (a letter) to a person b : to mark with the name and address of the intended recipient c : to impart orally d : to adapt in expression so as to have particular applicability <arguments direct ed at the emotions>
2 a : to regulate the activities or course of b : to carry out the organizing, energizing, and supervising of < direct a project> c : to dominate and determine the course of d : to train and lead performances of < direct a movie>
3 : to cause to turn, move, or point undeviatingly or to follow a straight course <X-rays direct ed through the body>
4 : to point, extend, or project in a specified line or course < direct the nozzle down>
5 : to request or enjoin with authority <the judge direct ed the jury to acquit>
6 : to show or point out the way for <signs direct ing us to the entrance>
intransitive verb
1 : to point out, prescribe, or determine a course or procedure
2 : to act as director
synonyms see COMMAND , CONDUCT