laser pointer

American  

noun

1. a portable laser that emits monochromatic light over a long and narrow distance, used especially as a pointing device.

---

Etymology

Origin of laser pointer

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

As she scrabbled for a laser pointer in her large handbag, her coloratura was comically on point, though she was inaudible in her middle range during the cabaletta.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 1, 2025

Authorities found a black cylindrical laser pointer in the front yard of the property, and identified it as the device aimed at officers.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2025

An investigation into Muller’s South Lake Tahoe cabin, where he was living at the time, revealed several unsettling items, including a toy gun with an attached laser pointer and duct-taped goggles.

From Salon • Jan. 19, 2024

Here, a small laser pointer was used instead of virtual objects to touch the hand.

From Science Daily • Nov. 14, 2023

There’s a spaceship in my garage, and I own a multipurpose ray gun disguised as a laser pointer.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith