point man

noun

1. the lead soldier of an infantry patrol on combat operations.
2. a person who serves in the forefront, as of an economic or political issue.

point man

noun

1. military a soldier who walks at the front of an infantry patrol in combat
2. the leader or spokesperson of a campaign or organization

Word History and Origins

Origin of point man¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

But the point man has told others outside the military that he was part of the mission in Abbottabad.

From The Daily Beast

The point man, according to those who know him, is still serving with the SEALs.

From The Daily Beast

He was the point man in the promotion when Evel Knievel swore he'd soar across Snake River Canyon in a sawed-off rocket ship.

From The Daily Beast

In fact, ask any battalion leader and they will tell you that the point man is vital to a mission.

From The Daily Beast

The point man is responsible for going out first, surveying the land and scoping out the potential danger.

From The Daily Beast

"I'm going to be a point man," Dell confided to Forrest, on one of their trips up to the homestead.

From Project Gutenberg

As he watched, a huge man reached over one of the cars, picked up a Star Point man, and lifted him behind the barricade.

From Project Gutenberg

The gag had just come out when the Star Point man jumped into view again, waving a rag over his head and yelling.

From Project Gutenberg

The West Point man was pleased, he was even more impressed, because he knew football.

From Project Gutenberg

After that point man changed but little in physical characteristics, except in size and complexity of brain.

From Project Gutenberg