point man

American  

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.

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point man British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of point man

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

In 2020, Lewis relinquished his longtime role as the House’s election policy point man after pleading guilty to charges related to using campaign funds for personal expenses, including rent.

From Salon

Powell was later ashamed of being the point man for that disastrous deception.

From Salon

“He’s a tremendous athlete,” said Gasparino, the longtime point man for the Dodgers’ draft operations.

From Los Angeles Times

It was Unguryan, The Family’s point man, who can be seen on the far left in a government photo of the participants.

From Salon

Millions regarded Fauci, with his raspy voice and plainspoken style, as the government’s trusted point man during the heights of the pandemic.

From Seattle Times