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

Israeli Defense Minister Yael Gallant took to X to provide a vague, but pointed, post before the IDF confirmed Sinwar’s death. —Rebecca Schneid, TIME, 17 Oct. 2024

The sun’s clash with Mars makes every annoyance seem like a pointed insult. —USA TODAY, 14 Oct. 2024

The bath and home product chain also apologized for the candle's imagery, which depicts a white-paper cutout of snowflakes with arms with pointed tips, each with two circular holes. —Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 14 Oct. 2024

Another particularly atmospheric spot is Le 1131, a formal fine-dining restaurant set beneath pointed arches and dazzling stained glass windows. —Chrissie McClatchie, Robb Report, 10 Oct. 2024

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

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