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

Underpinning the thriller’s genre mechanics is a pointed examination of status and belonging within Tokyo’s Filipino community. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 20 Mar. 2026

Coker’s work is rooted in Nigerian diasporic identity, her mother’s migration history, and a pointed critique of Western waste economies. —Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 19 Mar. 2026

Set on a 105mm heel, the striking silhouette boasted a razor-sharp pointed toe and a deep, curved vamp that elongated Myha’la’s foot. —Kelsey Stewart, Footwear News, 18 Mar. 2026

That raises the front end, giving the MK6 less of a sharp, pointed nose than its predecessor. —New Atlas, 17 Mar. 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