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Glite Dictionary
directivity

directivity

9.1
Ability to send and receive signals better in one direction, like an antenna or microphone
  • noun
  • /dɪrɛkˈtɪvɪti/
  • Specialized
translation icon : directividad
  • Scientists measured the directivity of the sound waves produced by the speaker.

Examples

  • The directivity of the new antenna improved signal reception.

  • The directivity of this microphone makes it ideal for recording on stage.

  • By increasing the directivity of an antenna, you can improve signal strength in a specific area.

  • Higher directivity can lead to better performance in communications.

  • The directivity of the microphone allows it to pick up sounds from a specific direction.

  • Engineers measured the directivity of the antenna to ensure it performed well in targeted areas.

  • The speaker's design optimizes directivity to enhance sound quality in large auditoriums.

Synonyms

directionality
vsdirectivity
  • Specialized
8.2

How well a microphone or antenna picks up signals from one side

is the more technical term for the same directional sensitivity

How Directional

directivity
  • Specialized
9.1
directionality
  • Specialized
8.2

Surface Forms

directivity singular
directivities plural

Morphology

directivity = direct (semi-transparent) = direct + ivity

The morphological link to 'direct' is clear, but the technical meaning ('directional performance' in devices) is specialized and may not be inferable by an average learner.

Etymology

The word directivity comes from the same root as direct and direction, from an old Latin idea meaning 'straight' or 'guided'. It describes how a device is stronger or more sensitive in certain directions, so you can remember it as 'how direct' or focused something is toward a particular direction.