pointed

[ poin-tid ]

adjective

1. having a point or points:

   a pointed arch.

2. sharp or piercing:

   pointed wit.

   Synonyms: epigrammatic, penetrating

   Antonyms: dull, blunt

3. having direct effect, significance, or force:

   pointed criticism.

4. aimed; directed:

   a pointed gun.

5. directed particularly, as at a person:

   a pointed remark.

6. marked; emphasized:

   An unusual turn of phrase, a well-placed emphasis, a choice of adjective, a pointed omission—all can turn an otherwise innocent sentence into a verbal dagger.

7. Heraldry. (of a cross) having parallel sides with points formed by two inclined sides on each end:

   a cross pointed.

pointed

/ ˈpɔɪntɪd /

adjective

1. having a point
2. cutting or incisive

   a pointed wit

3. obviously directed at or intended for a particular person or aspect

   pointed criticism

4. emphasized or made conspicuous

   pointed ignorance

5. (of an arch or style of architecture employing such an arch) Gothic
6. music (of a psalm text) marked to show changes in chanting
7. (of Hebrew text) with vowel points marked

Derived Forms

• ˈpointedness, noun
• ˈpointedly, adverb

Other Words From

• point·ed·ly adverb
• point·ed·ness noun
• mul·ti·point·ed adjective
• self-point·ed adjective
• un·point·ed adjective
• well-point·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pointed¹

A Middle English word dating back to 1250–1300; point, -ed ², -ed ³

Example Sentences

One expert questioned whether the two machetes we bought met the definition of having a "sharp pointed end" - a definition that hasn’t been considered yet in court.

From BBC

Robledo pointed out that he’s especially proud of the way in which the Disneyland version transitions into the bayou, as after a short drop we’re greeted by a burst of fireflies that gradually light up the forest that engulfs us and in moments explodes with music.

From Los Angeles Times

With tariffs, export controls and pointed rhetoric, the president-elect appears ready to take an even tougher stance this time around.

From BBC

She pointed out that the ambassador — a political appointee who will likely be replaced in the Trump administration — has also praised Mexican cooperation.

From Los Angeles Times

Shariyf pointed out how there was only one abortion clinic in the state before the total ban went into effect.

From Salon

Related Words

• barbed
• incisive
• pertinent
• sarcastic
• sharp
• telling
• trenchant