direction

Etymology

From Middle English direccioun, from Old French direccion, from Latin dīrēctiō. Equivalent to direct + -ion.

noun

1. A theoretical line (physically or mentally) followed from a point of origin or towards a destination. May be relative (e.g. up, left, outbound, dorsal), geographical (e.g. north), rotational (e.g. clockwise), or with respect to an object or location (e.g. toward Boston).
   Keep going in the same direction.
2. A general trend for future action.
3. Guidance, instruction.
   The trombonist looked to the bandleader for direction.
4. The work of the director in cinema or theater; the skill of directing a film, play etc.
   The screenplay was good, but the direction was weak.
5. (dated) The body of persons who guide or manage a matter; the directorate.
6. (archaic) A person's address.
   Her aunt Leonella was still at Cordova, and she knew not her direction. 1796, Matthew Lewis, The Monk, Folio Society, published 1985, page 218