pin·point
ˈpin-ˌpȯint 
1
: something that is extremely small or insignificant
2
: the point of a pin
3
: an extremely small or sharp point
1
: extremely fine or precise
2
: located, fixed, or directed with extreme precision
pinpoint targets
3
: small as a pinpoint
pinpointed; pinpointing; pinpoints
1
: to locate or aim with great precision or accuracy
pinpoint a source
2
a
: to fix, determine, or identify with precision
pinpoint the cause
b
: to cause to stand out conspicuously : highlight
Examples of pinpoint in a Sentence
Adjective
The pitcher showed pinpoint control of his fastball.
the pinpoint measurement of brain tumors is critically important
Verb
They were finally able to pinpoint the cause of the fire.
He pinpointed the city on the map.
Rescuers were able to pinpoint where the lost girl was.
The military uses computer imaging to pinpoint targets.
Recent Examples on the Web
Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2026
Bay Hill has recently brought out Henley’s best, thanks to his pinpoint ball-striking and clutch short game, highlighted by a pivotal chip-in for eagle on the par-5 16th hole in 2025.
—Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Mar. 2026
New Atlas, 4 Dec. 2025
Shaped like a compact disc and modeled after the brand’s Clear mask, this tiny tool delivers pinpoint treatment that helps calm and clear breakouts fast.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 25 Nov. 2025
Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 4 Mar. 2026
Also, take the time to pinpoint your exact aesthetic and vibe.
—Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for pinpoint
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Noun
Given the way rockets are being launched indiscriminately by Iranian forces in retaliation for pinpoint American and Israeli bombing runs on the country, there is a risk of casualties at sea.
—Charles Selle, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2026
Bay Hill has recently brought out Henley’s best, thanks to his pinpoint ball-striking and clutch short game, highlighted by a pivotal chip-in for eagle on the par-5 16th hole in 2025.
—Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Mar. 2026
Adjective
Maybe a thumbstick near the emergency brake would make pinpoint manual landings easier.
—New Atlas, 4 Dec. 2025
Shaped like a compact disc and modeled after the brand’s Clear mask, this tiny tool delivers pinpoint treatment that helps calm and clear breakouts fast.
—Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 25 Nov. 2025
Verb
When a man already has high blood pressure or uncontrolled diabetes, the likely causes of ED are easier to pinpoint.
—Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, CNN Money, 4 Mar. 2026
Also, take the time to pinpoint your exact aesthetic and vibe.
—Lisa Stardust, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for pinpoint
Cite this Entry
“Pinpoint.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pinpoint. Accessed 6 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
pinpoint
1 of 3 noun
pin·point
ˈpin-ˌpȯint
1
: the point of a pin
2
: an extremely small or sharp point
a pinpoint of light in the darkness
pinpoint
2 of 3 verb
: to locate or identify exactly
pinpoint your career interests
pinpoint
3 of 3 adjective1
: extremely fine or exact
pinpoint accuracy
2
: located, fixed, or directed with great exactness
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
