pointed

1 of 2

adjective (1)

point·​ed ˈpȯin-təd How to pronounce pointed (audio)
1
a
: having a point
b
: being an arch with a pointed crown
also : marked by the use of a pointed arch
pointed architecture
2
a
: being to the point : pertinent
b
: aimed at a particular person or group
3
: conspicuous, marked
pointed indifference
4
: having points that contrast in color with the basic coat color
a pointed cat
pointedly adverb
pointedness noun

pointed

2 of 2

adjective (2)

obsolete
: set, fixed

Examples of pointed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
The camera remains pointed toward the ground, and the other man is not seen. Keith L. Alexander, Washington Post, 11 Mar. 2024 Kent, who rubbed her stomach in a WWHL Instagram clip, accessorized her chic look with some Nicole Rose jewelry and added a pair of patent black pointed heels. Becca Longmire, Peoplemag, 6 Mar. 2024 When the attorney representing the voters stood up, questioning became far more pointed and insistent. Cnn.com Wire Service, The Mercury News, 4 Mar. 2024 This similar, ankle-length design with long sleeves provides great coverage for this time of year, and the pointed collar gives off the retro preppy vibe Katie Holmes has been sporting. Nicol Natale, Peoplemag, 29 Feb. 2024 His absences have grown a bit more pointed, however, since Foreigner launched its lengthy farewell tour last year (the trek resumes in March with dates scheduled through early June). Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 21 Feb. 2024 Academics were freer to debate various political alternatives, and the media could risk more pointed political commentary. Rana Mitter, Foreign Affairs, 20 Feb. 2024 This particular style was characterized by a wide, pointed scarf made of silk or a similar material, which was tied in a knot with the ends laid flat against the chest, often secured with a pin. Erik Kain, Forbes, 14 Feb. 2024 McCain herself has faced tensions with World Food Programme staffers who have urged her to adopt more pointed criticism of Israel. Laura Gersony, The Arizona Republic, 31 Jan. 2024

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

Word History

Etymology

Adjective (2)

short for appointed

First Known Use

Adjective (1)

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Adjective (2)

1523, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pointed was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near pointed

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

pointed

adjective
point·​ed
ˈpȯint-əd
1
: having a point
2
a
: being to the point : pertinent
b
: aimed at a particular person or group
pointed remarks
pointedly adverb
pointedness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on pointed

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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