pointed

1 of 3

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 3

adjective (2)

obsolete

: set, fixed

pointed

3 of 3

past tense and past participle of point entry 2

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

The combination checks all the boxes for transitional weather — her cropped jacket provides an extra layer without feeling bulky, pointed-toe flats create a polished finish, and cuffed jeans offer an easy way to show off shoes. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 16 Sep. 2026

Asked about her message to Paxton, LaTanya Walker gave a pointed response. — Jericka Duncan, CBS News, 15 Sep. 2026

Larroudé by Sergio Hudson, which debuted Sunday, is centered around a pointed-toe stiletto pump — a personal choice for the designer inspired by his mother. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026

Jones’s full ensemble at the tennis championships featured a red, white, and blue belt and all-white accessories, including a headband, sunglasses, pointed-toe pumps, and a white handbag with gold finishes. — Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 13 Sep. 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