Definition

An object or device used to indicate or direct attention to something, such as a stick for pointing at items or a scale indicator on a measuring instrument.

Example

The teacher used a pointer to highlight important information on the board.

Conversation

I saw a great pointer about studying techniques yesterday.

Oh really? What was it about?

It suggested breaking your study sessions into smaller chunks.

That sounds helpful! I could definitely use some good pointers for my exams.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pointer → The word 'pointer' is derived from the verb 'point' (from Old French *pointer*, meaning to indicate or direct) combined with the suffix '-er' (meaning a person or thing that performs an action). A pointer is something or someone that indicates or directs attention to something else.

Memory Tip

Think of someone or something that 'indicates' or 'directs' — that's what a pointer does.

Visually Confused Words