pointed

1 of 2

adjective (1)

point·​ed ˈpȯin-təd 

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, group, or thing

made a pointed remark

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

Synonyms of pointed

Adjective (1)

• tipped
• sharp
• barbed
• peaked
• jagged

Examples of pointed in a Sentence

Adjective (1)

the sansevieria's long pointed leaves make it an easily recognized houseplant

he made a number of pointed remarks on the crisis abroad

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

American media still remained pointed and punchy, free from debilitating lawsuits or destabilizing pressures. — Literary Hub, 14 Aug. 2026

Both artists toe the line between rock & roll and Americana and use their music to make pointed cultural and political statements. — Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 13 Aug. 2026

The film’s pointed critique of a fractured society severely damaged by playing catch-up capitalism is unmistakable, but for those familiar with recent Ghanaian politics, Armar’s poignant assessment goes deeper. — Jay Weissberg, Variety, 9 Aug. 2026

Take styling cues from Jessica Alba, who dressed up her dark-wash pair with a sleek blazer and pointed-toe heels. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 9 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for pointed

• jointed
• anointed
• appointed
• disjointed
• pinpointed
• disappointed
• reappointed

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