As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To do or influence something by going through or using something else rather than the easiest, simplest, or shortest route; to go somewhere by a long route rather than the shortest route. English = (be) indirect, (be) roundabout. As Modifier: 1. Used next to a verb (action) sign to mean that the action was done by going through or using something else rather than through the easiest, simplest, or shortest route. English = indirectly.