pointer

noun

point·​er ˈpȯin-tər How to pronounce pointer (audio)
1
a
Pointers plural : the two stars in the Big Dipper a line through which points to the North Star
b
: one that points out
especially : a rod used to direct attention
c
: a computer memory address that contains another address (as of desired data)
2
: any of various large, strong, slender gundogs that hunt by scent and indicate the presence of game by pointing (see point entry 2 sense 4b)
specifically : any of an English breed of agile, muscular dogs having a short, smooth coat that is usually white with patches of liver, pale yellow, black, or orange and a moderately long tapered tail see also german shorthaired pointer, german wirehaired pointer
3
: one that furnishes with points
4
: a useful suggestion or hint : tip

Examples of pointer in a Sentence

Let me give you a few pointers on managing a successful business. The latest data gives a pointer to the economy's overall growth. This may be a pointer to a very serious problem.
Recent Examples on the Web The lobby had a sculpture of a pointer and a glass wall with a view of the heated indoor pool. Sam Apple, New York Times, 14 Mar. 2024 In-ha with his schoolwork and also offers pointers on how to manage his hostile chaebol family. Joan MacDonald, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024 North Crowley stormed right back to end the first quarter with a three pointer from Corey Taylor, who had seven first quarter points. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Feb. 2024 Addressing serial infidelity usually requires a more long-term intervention, like therapy, Dr. Knopp adds, which brings us to our next and final pointer… 5. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 23 Feb. 2024 But here are some pointers to help you on that journey: · Plan for workforce impact. Bernard Marr, Forbes, 16 Feb. 2024 Two, big three pointers by Katelyn Tietjen and Hannah Due late in the fourth quarter put the Blue Raiders up 43-35. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Feb. 2024 The advice proved valuable—two hours after receiving the pointers, Jenniskens’ team found their first fragment. Tara Wu, Smithsonian Magazine, 12 Feb. 2024 The Canes could have used him against RJ Davis, who led the Tar Heels with 25 points, including five three pointers. Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 10 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'pointer.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of pointer was in 1534

Dictionary Entries Near pointer

Cite this Entry

“Pointer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pointer. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

pointer

noun
point·​er ˈpȯint-ər How to pronounce pointer (audio)
1
: one that points
especially : a rod used to direct attention
2
: a large dog with long ears and short hair that hunts by scent, and points game
3
: a useful hint : tip
pointers on how to study

Medical Definition

pointer

More from Merriam-Webster on pointer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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