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 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

Synonyms

Adjective (1)

• peaked
• pointy
• sharp
• spired
• tipped

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 schedule release videos often include pointed jokes toward opposing players or teams. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2025

Dolly Parton's Rose The Dolly Parton hybrid tea rose is a bright and beautiful plant, full of pointed red petals in blooms that span up to six inches. —Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025

The plum bob, or a pointed weight, was attached to a string to find vertical lines. —Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 14 May 2025

When evaluating potential experts, ask pointed questions about their experience with the precise technologies and scenarios relevant to your matter. —Lars Daniel, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025

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