pointer

noun

point·​er ˈpȯin-tər 

1

a

Pointers plural : the two stars in the Big Dipper a line through which points to the North Star

b

: one that points out

especially : a rod used to direct attention

c

: a computer memory address that contains another address (as of desired data)

2

: any of various large, strong, slender gundogs that hunt by scent and indicate the presence of game by pointing (see point entry 2 sense 1b)

specifically : any of an English breed of agile, muscular dogs having a short, smooth coat that is usually white with patches of liver, pale yellow, black, or orange and a moderately long tapered tail see also german shorthaired pointer, german wirehaired pointer

3

: one that furnishes with points

4

: a useful suggestion or hint : tip

Synonyms of pointer

• needle
• indicator
• index

Examples of pointer in a Sentence

Let me give you a few pointers on managing a successful business.

The latest data gives a pointer to the economy's overall growth.

This may be a pointer to a very serious problem.

Recent Examples on the Web

Only two players, Jayden Pierre (2-for-7) and Robinson (2-for-3), made more than one 3-pointer. —Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Nov. 2025

Junior guard Connor Sevilla scored 20 points for UCD, making four 3-pointers, and junior guard Nils Cooper had 14. —Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 15 Nov. 2025

The Islanders finished the night shooting 32% from the field, including 7% on 3-pointers. —Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 12 Nov. 2025

Power forward Moussa Diabaté grabbed a team-best 13 rebounds and guard Tre Mann,, who finished with 13 points, nailed a 3-pointer from roughly 37 feet away during the final minute of the first half as the Hornets pulled away . —Shane Connuck, Charlotte Observer, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Phrases Containing pointer

• German shorthaired pointer
• German wirehaired pointer
• hip pointer
• three-pointer

Rhymes for pointer

• jointer

Kids Definition

pointer

noun

point·​er ˈpȯint-ər 

1

: one that points

especially : a rod used to direct attention

2

: a large dog with long ears and short hair that hunts by scent, and points game

3

: a useful hint : tip

pointers on how to study

Medical Definition

pointer

see hip pointer