directive(n = noun.communication) - a pronouncement encouraging or banning some activity; "the boss loves to send us directives"
Derived form verb direct₁, adjective directive₁

   directive(s = adj.all) directing, directional, guiding - showing the way by conducting or leading; imposing direction on; "felt his mother's directing arm around him"; "the directional role of science on industrial progress"
Derived form verb direct₁₃, verb direct₄, noun directive₁, noun directiveness₁, noun directivity₂

directive, n. & adj.
--n. a general instruction from one in authority.
--adj. serving to direct.

Etymology:
ME f. med.L directivus (as DIRECT)