pointer

noun
point·​er | \ ˈpȯin-tər How to pronounce pointer (audio) \

Definition of pointer

1a 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 4b) 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

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Synonyms for pointer

Synonyms

hand, index, indicator, needle

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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.
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Recent Examples on the Web

K Aldrick Rosas, Giants: Offense is decent enough to provide 35 three-pointers and 30-plus PATs for the big-legged Rosas. Cory Bonini, USA TODAY, "Fantasy football: Dak Prescott headlines 2019 all-sleeper team," 14 Aug. 2019 Brady was still there, though, giving pointers and seemingly acting as the world’s most expensive ballboy for the day. Nora Princiotti, BostonGlobe.com, "Matt LaCosse works on his pitch for tight end role," 26 July 2019 Hiedeman stole the ball and hit a layup, Tuck hit a three-pointer and when Jones hit a shot to put the Sun up 79-52 with 5:30 left, the starters on the bench went crazy, jumping around and cheering. Lori Riley, courant.com, "Bria Holmes has a season-high 17 points and the Connecticut Sun defeat Dream, 98-69," 20 July 2019 But the Bucks couldn't get over the hump with Rayjon Tucker badly missing a three-pointer and turning the ball over in the final minute. Ben Steele, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Bucks fall to 76ers in summer league opener," 5 July 2019 Miami allowed 18 three-pointers and forced just 10 turnovers against Philadelphia's athletic lineup. Adam H. Beasley And Manny Navarro, miamiherald, "Miami Heat's Bam Adebayo 'did OK' in playoff debut, but much more is needed | Miami Herald," 16 Apr. 2018 Points and three-pointers and percentages are great. Joe Freeman, oregonlive.com, "In era of NBA player empowerment, CJ McCollum bucks trend, stays loyal to Portland Trail Blazers," 31 July 2019 Wheeler came up big for Team Wilson with a game-sealing three-pointer to win 129–126 over Team Delle Donne. Jenna West, SI.com, "Erica Wheeler Becomes First Undrafted WNBA Player to Win All-Star Game MVP," 27 July 2019 Korver ranks fourth all-time with 2,351 three-pointers made, trailing only Ray Allen, Reggie Miller and Stephen Curry. Matt Velazquez, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Kyle Korver is a still a threat from long range and fits in well in the Bucks' let-it-fly offense," 20 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pointer.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of pointer

1534, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

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More Definitions for pointer

pointer

noun

English Language Learners Definition of pointer

: a useful suggestion about how to do or understand something better
British : a sign that shows the condition or existence of something
: a thin stick that a person uses to show people where to look on a screen, map, etc.

pointer

noun
point·​er | \ ˈpȯin-tər How to pronounce pointer (audio) \

Kids Definition of pointer

1 : something that points or is used for pointing
2 : a helpful hint I got a few pointers on diving.
3 : a large dog with long ears and short hair that is trained to direct its head and body in the direction of an animal that is being hunted

pointer

Medical Definition of pointer

— see hip pointer

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