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

The brand's Big Crown Pointer Date, known for its oversized crown and pointer date, oozes the charisma that Oris products have become known for over the decades, all encased in a ready-for-patina bronze shell that will age gracefully, just like the most iconic country songs of yesteryear. —Chris Barilla, PEOPLE, 28 Nov. 2025

Miles and Suarez sparked the run as Miles found Suarez for an open 3-pointer. —Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Nov. 2025

Houston took its first lead of the evening on its first possession of the fourth quarter as Aaron Holiday knocked down a 3-pointer from the right wing, fully erasing a Golden State lead that had ballooned to 14 points. —Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 27 Nov. 2025

After inside misses by Sophie Hart and Mara Braun, Alabama’s Jessica Timmons hit a 3-pointer to give the Crimson Tide a 54-53 lead. —Pioneer Press, Twin Cities, 27 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