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

On the next, Wembanyama sat in the paint and left Towns open for a corner 3-pointer, which Towns made to give the Knicks a 56-52 lead at the break. —Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 6 June 2026

Arike Ogunbowale scored 30 points and made six 3-pointers, Paige Bueckers had 18 points and a career-high 14 assists and the Dallas Wings beat the Los Angeles Sparks 104-96 on Friday night for their fourth straight victory. —ABC News, 6 June 2026

After making a pull-up 3-pointer in transition to cap her personal run, the Dream called a timeout as Gainbridge Fieldhouse erupted with excitement. —James Boyd, New York Times, 5 June 2026

But Wembanyama's block of Josh Hart at the rim swung some momentum, leading to a 3-pointer by the French star on the other end. —Andrew Greif, NBC news, 4 June 2026

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