pointed

1 of 2

adjective (1)

point·​ed ˈpȯin-təd How to pronounce pointed (audio)
Synonyms of pointednext
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

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Adjective (1)

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The silhouette also includes a pointed toe and stiletto heel, bookending the shoe with classic design cues. — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 9 July 2026 The data grows more pointed as technology becomes more sophisticated. — Jonathan Mallie, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 Gaethje’s strategy in the fight was to consistently move left to counter Topuria’s pointed stance and make the Georgian-Spaniard constantly reset his approach. — Kyle Newman, Denver Post, 6 July 2026 Siamese, Ragdoll and Birman cats typically have a pointed coat. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for pointed

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of pointed was in the 14th century

Rhymes for pointed

See All Rhymes for pointed

Browse Nearby Words

Pointe-Claire
pointed
pointedly
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pointed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pointed. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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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

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