Definition

1. Noun:
   • A breed of hunting dog: A pointer is a strong, slender, smooth-haired dog originally from Spain, typically with a white coat marked with brown or black patches. It is trained to locate game by scent and then stand still, pointing its muzzle towards the location to indicate the find to the hunter.
   • A computer interface element: In computing, a pointer is a movable icon (like an arrow or hand) on a visual display screen. Moving a mouse or other input device controls this pointer to select commands, manipulate objects, or indicate screen positions.
   • An indicator on a device: A pointer is a needle, hand, or similar marker on a dial, gauge, or scale that shows a measurement or value, such as on a clock, speedometer, or weighing scale.
   • A sign or indicator: A pointer is something that serves to direct attention, indicate a direction, or suggest a course of action. It can be a physical mark or a piece of advice.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Hunting Dog):
  • The hunter's pointer froze, indicating a covey of quail in the brush.
  • She breeds English pointers for field trials.
• Noun (Computer Element):
  • Move the pointer over the link and click to open the webpage.
  • The cursor changed from an arrow pointer to an hourglass icon.
• Noun (Device Indicator):
  • The pointer on the fuel gauge was hovering near 'empty'.
  • Align the red pointer with the zero mark before taking a measurement.
• Noun (Sign or Indicator):
  • The sudden drop in sales is a clear pointer to problems with the new product.
  • He gave me a few pointers on how to improve my golf swing.

Advanced Usage

• "To give someone a pointer": To offer someone a helpful hint, tip, or piece of advice.
  • Could you give me a pointer on how to start this project?
• "A pointer to/towards something": Something that serves as evidence or an indication of a fact, trend, or direction.
  • Her early interest in science was a pointer to her future career.

Variants and Related Words

• Point (verb): To direct attention towards something.
• Pointing (noun/adj): The action of indicating direction.
• Pointed (adj): Having a sharp end; direct and unambiguous in reference.

Synonyms

• Indicator: Something that shows the state or level of something.
• Cursor: The movable indicator on a computer screen.
• Needle: A thin pointer on a dial (e.g., of a compass).
• Hint / Tip: A small piece of practical advice.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Point out (phrasal verb): To direct someone's attention to or identify something.
  • She pointed out several errors in the report.
  • This phrase is related to the concept of indicating, which is central to 'pointer'.

Related Idioms

• The finger of suspicion points at...: Suspicion is directed towards a particular person.
  • After the theft, the finger of suspicion pointed at the new employee.
  • This idiom relates to the 'indicating' function of a pointer.

Noun

1. a strong slender smooth-haired dog of Spanish origin having a white coat with brown or black patches; scents out and points to game
2. (computer science) indicator consisting of a movable spot of light (an icon) on a visual display; moving it allows the user to point to commands or screen positions
3. an indicator as on a dial
4. a mark to indicate a direction or relation