pointer

noun

point·​er ˈpȯin-tər 

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

Synonyms

• needle
• indicator
• index

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

An 11-time All-Star, 11-time All-NBA honoree, four-time NBA champion and two-time league MVP, Steph has rewritten the modern game with his elite shooting, ranking first all-time in career 3-pointers made (4,058). —Rowan Fisher-Shotton, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Oct. 2025

Here are some pointers and places to start. —Kat McGowan, NPR, 18 Oct. 2025

For the first time in NBA history last season there were more missed 3-pointers than missed 2-pointers. —Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 17 Oct. 2025

Shannon is adept at opening up teammates for 3-pointers on those plays. —Fred Katz, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing pointer

• German shorthaired pointer
• German wirehaired pointer
• hip pointer
• three-pointer

Rhymes for pointer

• jointer

Kids Definition

pointer

noun

point·​er ˈpȯint-ər 

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

see hip pointer