Oriented

Oriented is an adjective and the past participle of orient. It describes something that has an established orientation, is directed toward a defined direction or goal, or shows a tendency toward a particular condition. Objects, plans, and ideas can be described as oriented. The term is often used with the noun orientation to denote alignment, direction, or familiarity; the opposite state is disoriented.

The word derives from Latin oriens meaning "rising" or "east," via French and English. Orient originally referred to the east and the rising sun, and over time the sense broadened to mean to align or familiarize oneself with a position or purpose. Orientation is the noun form; orienting or to orient are verbs that describe the act of establishing or finding one's position or direction.

In geography, architecture, and mapping, an object or building can be oriented toward a cardinal direction. In navigation, map making, and robotics, being oriented toward a target is essential. In science and engineering, "oriented" describes materials with a preferred direction of molecular or crystal alignment, such as oriented polymers or crystals, leading to anisotropic properties. In social sciences and education, orientation can refer to an individual's goals, values, or educational track. A person can become oriented to a place or task, or feel disoriented when lacking reference.

Oriented contrasts with disoriented, and is commonly used with related terms such as orient, orientation, and orienting.