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

Other Word Forms

• pointedly adverb
• pointedness noun
• multipointed adjective
• self-pointed adjective
• unpointed adjective
• well-pointed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pointed¹

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

Example Sentences

And as the Times pointed out about what sad fate likely awaits Venezuelans, “with its oil, gold and other minerals, there are many spoils.”

From Salon

Many economists have pointed out that the White House reductions have been accompanied by other deficit-ballooning policies, which could undercut their attacks on Democrats for being the party of fiscal irresponsibility.

From BBC

Not done waxing poetic about the eyes on the veritable Redford of retrievers, Leonberg also pointed out another benefit of his dog’s particular coloration.

From Salon

Jarmond pointed to UCLA’s partnering with NIL agency Article 41 to enhance athletes’ personal brands and social media presence as evidence of the school’s commitment to being on the forefront of the NIL space.

From Los Angeles Times

Made over years, “The Alabama Solution” is vital reporting about a serious human rights issue that extends beyond one state’s pointed cruelty.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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