pointer

noun

point·​er ˈpȯin-tər How to pronounce pointer (audio)
Synonyms of pointernext
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

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
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.
Dyson Daniels also had a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds and McCollum finished with 17 points and three 3-pointers. CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026 The guard earned title game MVP honors, scoring 20 points and showcasing his elite shooting by converting six 3-pointers. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Apr. 2026 Memphis reserves Adama Bal and Dariq Whitehead each made six 3-pointers. ABC News, 7 Apr. 2026 The other two shots were right at the rim, while the Hawkeyes hit a loping 3-pointer. Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pointer

Word History

First Known Use

1534, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of pointer was in 1534

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pointer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pointer. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

pointer

noun
point·​er ˈpȯint-ər How to pronounce pointer (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on pointer

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster