pointed

1 of 2

adjective (1)

point·​ed ˈpȯin-təd 

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 or group

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

Adjective (1)

• peaked
• pointy
• sharp
• spired
• tipped

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

Adjective

The pointed toes and dual straps (both adjustable, one thinner than the other) offer visual intrigue. —Nina Derwin, Glamour, 19 Mar. 2025

In today’s workplace, people are asking themselves pointed questions: Does this job align with my life’s goals? —Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025

The filmmaker asks pointed questions, operating from an authoritative position. —Rick Kogan, Chicago Tribune, 12 Mar. 2025

Over several days of pointed questions, no one in the federal government has produced or pointed to any evidence that Khalil did anything but speak and organize. —New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 12 Mar. 2025

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

Rhymes for pointed

• jointed
• anointed
• appointed
• disjointed
• pinpointed
• disappointed
• reappointed

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